Selena Gomez 'shines' in new Oscar-tipped musical

Selena Gomez is making waves in the entertainment world with her latest role in the musical film Emilia Pérez. This film has already gained significant attention after its premiere at the prestigious Cannes Film Festival, where it was celebrated for its powerful performances. Alongside Gomez, the film features talented actresses Zoe Saldaña, Karla Sofía Gascón, and Adriana Paz, who all shared the award for best actress at Cannes. Emilia Pérez is now available for audiences worldwide on Netflix, just in time for the upcoming awards season. The story revolves around a dangerous drug lord in Mexico, played by Gascón, who seeks the help of a high-powered lawyer named Rita, portrayed by Saldaña, to fake his own death. However, the twist is that the drug lord wishes to transition into a woman and start a new life. The film explores the lives of four women, including the newly transitioned Emilia, as they navigate their own paths to happiness in contemporary Mexico. Gascón, a Spanish trans actress, has been recognized as a strong contender for best actress in the upcoming awards, thanks to her compelling portrayal of Emilia. The film's director, Jacques Audiard, was inspired to create this story after reading a chapter in Boris Razon's novel, which featured a drug lord changing identity. Audiard's vision expanded to include a narrative about gender transition, focusing on the personal journey of the character rather than merely evading rival drug lords. Gascón's casting was crucial to the film's success, as she brought authenticity and depth to the role. The casting process was intense, with Gascón being asked to learn five songs in a short time. Despite her initial concerns about her singing abilities, she embraced the challenge and worked closely with the production team to deliver a remarkable performance. Audiard has stated that without Gascón, the film would not exist, highlighting her importance to the project. Interestingly, Gascón expressed a desire to portray both the male and female versions of her character, believing it was essential to fully capture the character's journey. This required creative use of makeup and effects to depict her transformation. The film raises important questions about representation in the industry, with Gascón advocating for opportunities for all actors while acknowledging the value of lived experiences in portraying certain roles. Critics have praised Gascón's performance, describing her as a 'wonderful discovery' and noting the emotional depth she brings to her character. Selena Gomez, known for her previous work in Only Murders in the Building, plays the drug lord's wife, who is unaware of her husband's new identity. Reviews of Emilia Pérez have been largely positive, with many highlighting Gomez's surprising performance as a dramatic actress. Critics have noted that she sheds her Disney Channel image and delivers a powerful portrayal of a woman grappling with heartache and danger. The film's climax showcases Gomez's ability to convey complex emotions, further establishing her as a versatile actress. The film has been described as a wild and glittering ride that defies traditional genres, with some critics calling it a magnificent, genre-bending experience. However, not all reviews have been entirely favorable, with some pointing out the film's sentimental moments and tonal shifts. Despite this, Emilia Pérez is expected to make a significant impact during the awards season, with its unique storytelling and strong performances. The film has already been selected as France's entry for the best international feature category at the Oscars, which adds to the excitement surrounding its release. As the film gains traction, the cast members, including Paz, express their gratitude for the recognition and the opportunity to share their stories. They emphasize the importance of the film's themes and the representation of women in the industry. Emilia Pérez is a film that promises to entertain and inspire audiences, showcasing the power of storytelling and the resilience of its characters.