Netflix unveils Emilia Pérez musical thriller starring Zoe Saldana and Selena Gomez

Netflix has secured the rights to a French-directed musical thriller that has garnered significant acclaim at the Cannes Film Festival, including a jury prize and a shared best actress award among its stars. The film, which features Zoe Saldana and Selena Gomez, is set against a backdrop of crime and identity exploration. Saldana plays Rita, a lawyer who assists a cartel leader in their journey of gender reassignment, leading to a complex narrative about family and self-discovery. The film's protagonist, after faking their death, assumes a new identity as Emilia Pérez, portrayed by Spanish transgender actor Karla Sofía Gascón. The story unfolds as Emilia seeks to reconnect with her past, including her ex-wife Jessi, played by Gomez. The film is characterized by its musical numbers that highlight the emotional journey of the characters. Despite its Mexican storyline, most of the filming took place in a French studio, a decision made by director Jacques Audiard due to logistical challenges in Mexico. Saldana, who has a deep appreciation for Mexican culture, emphasized the film's celebration of this rich heritage during a Cannes press conference. This project marks Gomez's first foray into Spanish-language cinema, a challenge she embraced by practicing with her family. The film's unique blend of musical elements and crime drama has positioned it as a strong contender for awards, following its successful debut at Cannes, where it received an enthusiastic response from audiences.