Netflix’s Emilia Pérez has officially become the most-nominated film at the 2025 Academy Awards, earning a staggering 13 nominations and leaving the internet divided. Written and directed by French filmmaker Jacques Audiard, the crime musical tells the story of a Mexican cartel leader who, with the help of a lawyer, undergoes gender-affirming surgery, fakes her death, and begins a new life as her true self. Starring Karla Sofía Gascón in the titular role, the film features an ensemble cast that includes Zoe Saldaña, Selena Gomez, Adriana Paz, Mark Ivanir, and Édgar Ramírez.
While Emilia Pérez has found significant recognition during awards season, its Oscar domination has baffled many viewers. Social media has erupted with reactions ranging from shock to frustration, as fans of other films lament perceived snubs. The polarizing nature of the movie has only fueled the fire, making it one of the most talked-about films of the year.
A Controversial and Celebrated Journey
Emilia Pérez first premiered at the Cannes Film Festival in May 2024, where it made a splash by winning the Jury Prize and earning the Best Actress award for its entire female ensemble cast. Critics have largely praised the film for its daring approach, with a 76% score on Rotten Tomatoes reflecting generally positive reviews. Many have highlighted its bold, genre-defying style and its commitment to centering a trans story.
However, Emilia Pérez has not escaped controversy. The film has faced significant backlash in Mexico, where it is set, with critics accusing it of perpetuating cultural stereotypes and offering a surface-level portrayal of Mexican identity. Within the LGBTQ+ community, the handling of its trans protagonist has also been divisive, with some praising the representation while others criticize the character’s arc as reductive.
Despite these criticisms, Emilia Pérez has performed well throughout the awards season, becoming the second most-nominated film in Golden Globes history and now leading the Oscars race. The divide between critics and general audiences is clear, as the film holds only a 33% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes, further emphasizing its polarizing reception.
A Debate That Defines Awards Season
The announcement of Emilia Pérez’s 13 Oscar nominations has ignited intense discussion, with supporters lauding it as a progressive and boundary-pushing musical, while detractors question its storytelling and cultural sensitivity. For some, the debate is an opportunity to engage with important conversations about representation and the responsibilities of filmmakers. For others, the film’s critical acclaim feels at odds with its mixed reception among general audiences and specific communities.
Regardless of where one stands, Emilia Pérez has undeniably become one of the most significant cultural flashpoints of the year. Its blend of bold ambition and controversy ensures that it will remain a focal point of discussion long after the Oscars are handed out.
As the awards season debate rages on, Emilia Pérez stands as a reminder of the evolving landscape of film, representation, and audience expectations, making it one of the most fascinating films of 2024.