EMILIA PÈREZ -- A Genre-Blending Delight That Surprises, Entertains, and Transcends Expectations

By Jonathan Berk

Sometimes, you go to a movie because you expect it to deliver exactly what you want. Whether it’s a bombastic action film, a terrifying horror flick, a weepy love story, or a gut-busting comedy — you go in knowing what you want, and hopefully, you get it. Other times, you leave disappointed because the film didn’t deliver the goods. Then there are those rare times when you go in with no idea what to expect, and the movie gives you something you never knew you wanted… but now you realize you did. Jacques Audiard's (Rust and Bone) new film, Emilia Pérez, falls into the latter category, blending genres uniquely and unforgettably.

Rita (Zoe Saldana), an underrated lawyer who’s grown tired of keeping criminals out of jail, is offered an opportunity that could change her life. The catch? She’ll be working for Manitas (Karla Sofia Gascon), a cartel leader, on a mission with life-altering consequences. 
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Saldana has proven her acting prowess time and again, but within moments of this film, she delivers a performance that locks her in as a strong Oscar contender. She brings unmatched energy and nuance to Rita, transforming the legal process into a dynamic, musical experience. In her first musical number, as she preps an argument while navigating the streets of Mexico City, the film reveals its musical dimension, easing the audience in but immediately showcasing Saldana’s immense talent. It’s a fresh approach, with choreography blending seamlessly into scenes of Rita typing away on her laptop — no one has brought this much energy to legal proceedings, and I’m here for it.

Emilia Pérez may not be the first movie to mix the cartel genre with musical and telenovela elements, but it’s certainly unique.  This fusion of styles might not have been on anyone’s bingo card, but the final product is undeniable. It is a compelling story paired with musical drama that peaks in surprising yet captivating ways. The production design is also remarkable, truly popping during the musical numbers, where Audiard’s vision brings life to each song and dance.

One of the most memorable musical scenes centers around Rita and Emilia at a fundraiser dinner. The room is almost entirely in shadow except for the people sitting at the tables. Rita dances around them and uses some of the guests as props in her dance. The lyrics have a lot of narrative influence, and they get to the heart of the duality of conflict. They are raising money to help with their non-profit that assists in locating missing people to give families closure. However, the people at the dinner are often directly or indirectly associated with the cartels that have led to the need for the foundation in the first place. This irony eats at Rita, and she can no longer contain the emotions, which burst out through song and dance. The number perfectly captures her moral struggle, making it one of the film’s most poignant moments.

Saldana isn’t the only standout, either. Gascon delivers an incredible performance, showcasing a full range of emotions: heartbreak, joy, fear, excitement, and more. Gascon’s performance is star-making, bringing depth and vulnerability to her role. While Selena Gomez’s character doesn’t get quite as much screen time, she shines in her musical scenes, especially her first number, which features some very cool visuals and choreography.

There’s a case to be made for going into a movie with no prior knowledge — it sometimes enhances the experience by leaving room for surprises. I went into Emilia Pérez with very little information, and I couldn’t have predicted just how much this movie would work for me. The unexpected fusion of genres makes this movie a cinematic delight, with standout performances, vibrant production, and unforgettable musical numbers. These pieces combine to make a cinematic stew that we are all fortunate to feast upon. It’s not a film to skip.

Emilia Pérez will be in theaters on November 1.

Rating: 4.5/5