Jacques Audiard’s latest film “Emilia Perez” made a splash at Cannes with its world premiere, receiving an 11-minute standing ovation. The Spanish-language musical crime comedy features a star-studded cast including Zoe Saldana, Selena Gomez, Karla Sofia Gascon, and Edgar Ramirez, captivating audiences at the Palais des Festivals. As the credits rolled, Audiard expressed gratitude to the audience, sparking another round of applause that lasted an additional two minutes. The emotional impact of the film was evident, with Saldana, Gascon, and Gomez visibly moved to tears amidst the overwhelming reception.
Returning to Cannes after his 2021 feature “Paris, 13th District,” veteran filmmaker Audiard crafts a compelling narrative centered around Rita, played by Saldana, a lawyer disillusioned by her firm’s ethical compromises. When approached by cartel leader Manitas, portrayed by Gascon, Rita finds herself on a transformative journey that blurs the lines between justice and personal reinvention. Collaborating with Thomas Bidegain and Lea Mysius on the screenplay, Audiard delivers a unique blend of crime, comedy, and music, promising audiences an immersive cinematic experience.
With its French release scheduled for August 28 by Pathe and international sales handled by The Veterans, “Emilia Perez” stands out as one of the highlights of this year’s Cannes lineup. The film captivates audiences with its exceptional storytelling and stellar performances, offering a unique and engrossing viewing experience. Audiard’s direction, coupled with the talented cast and innovative screenplay, ensures that “Emilia Perez” leaves a lasting impression on viewers and cements its place as a must-see film of the year.
