A frenetic joyride of sights and sounds, Emilia Perez is a charming musical whose story and style is so audacious in its scope and original in its delivery that you can’t help but appreciate its craft.
The musical format is always an interesting choice among films as to illustrate the story of the characters through song and dance and to convey their feelings and emotions in an effective way. This is achieved to such fascinating results within the film where its enthusiastic bursts of musicality are so infectious that even when some of the songs frankly did not work well, it was always interesting to watch. Filled with ambitious spectacles of music and life ranging from the dissatisfaction of the justice system to the yearning of a past sexual partner to the details and follow-up for a sex change operation, there’s so much ridiculously fun musical dialogue and earnest emotional moments, that each sequence of the characters singing demands your attention.
The three lead actresses are impressive in their balance of the musical with the dramatic demonstrating their capabilities on both ends to outstanding results and portraying these complex female characters with assured sincerity. Karla Sofia Gascon is a revelation in the titular role from grappling with her gender identity and true self to the devotion to her family and community, she delivers a multi-faceted performance and impresses in her first leading role. Selena Gomez stuns in a dramatic turn as the grieving wife confronting the past of her husband’s actions and the events that follow, whilst also dazzling in various musical moments showing the actress’ roots, this combined shows her evolution as a performer. Zoe Saldana is the true MVP and surprisingly the emotional core of the film, where she absolutely nails every scene she’s in and truly gives one of her best performances to date as the earnest lawyer enlisted by Emilia to help with her transition. From the elaborate musical sequences comprising of demanding choreography and vocal delivery to her character’s journey reconciling her place in the world and protecting the ones she cares for, Saldana gives an undeniable tour de force performance.
BFI LFF #4
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