Rita (Zoe Saldaña) is a highly skilled lawyer who works for a law firm that fails to fully appreciate her talents or give her the recognition she deserves. Frustrated by the system, she often witnesses criminals being released on bail rather than seeing them get the justice they deserve for their heinous crimes. Additionally, Rita is struggling financially. After helping win a recent court case, Rita receives a mysterious phone call regarding a possible job offer. When she arrives at the meeting point, she is captured and taken to see Manitas del Monte (Karla Sofía Gascón), a leader of a Mexican cartel. Filled with concern and fear for her life, Rita listens as Manitas proposes a deal. If she agrees, the rewards could be substantial, including a massive payout.
In a surprising turn of events, Manitas reveals a personal secret: he wants to become a woman and has started various procedures over the past few years in secret. Manitas needs Rita’s assistance to disappear, oversee the transition process, and help manage the financial aspects with Manita’s wife, Jessi (Selena Gomez). Rita reluctantly agrees to help. As the procedures are completed successfully, Manitas becomes Emilia, and Rita is paid; the two will never cross paths again. However, as time goes by, Rita and Emilia meet once again, and Emilia has another favour to ask.
Emilia Pérez (2024) is a crime and drama film that surprisingly incorporates elements of a musical, featuring several musical numbers throughout. The film was co-written and directed by Jacques Audiard, known for his previous works, including The Sisters Brothers (2018) and A Prophet (2009).
I have a few key praises to share. Firstly, I was utterly blown away and thoroughly impressed by actress Zoe Saldaña’s performance. She excelled not only in dramatic scenes but also in the musical numbers, which showcased her talent beautifully. Secondly, I thoroughly enjoyed the film’s music and soundtrack. While it takes some risks and is quite different, I found myself highly entertained by most of the tracks. The film’s first act introduces Rita as a skilled lawyer, introduces Manitas, and outlines the plot in a splendid manner.
Aside from Zoe Saldaña’s performance, I found the quality and sharpness of the other performances to be lacking. The film’s story also declines after the second act, where the main characters make increasingly outrageous choices that lead to outcomes that are neither surprising nor unexpected. Ultimately, I felt that the film’s climax was weak, disappointing, silly, and unsatisfying, particularly given the film’s length of over two hours.
Overall, when it comes to Emilia Pérez, the opening, plot structure, and character introductions were all quite strong. However, once the film reached its second act, a noticeable decline in the story’s quality and the characters’ journey became apparent, leading to some baffling choices and their consequences. I found most of the musical numbers to be unique and bold, and I admire their distinct style. The true highlight of the film is Zoe Saldaña, who delivers what I believe to be her best performance yet. This includes her musical acts, where she showcases a sharpness and captivating presence that feels rare in contemporary musical dramas. Overall, the film is primarily enjoyable, despite a few moments that are eye-rolling.
Emilia Pérez (2024) is Now Avaialble on Blu-ray & DVD thanks to Madman Films!
6.5/10
Published: 3rd April 2025
Written by: Peter Walkden
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