‘True Detective’ Showrunner Issa López Defends ‘Emilia Pérez’ Following Backlash

As a movie enthusiast, I’ve been eagerly anticipating the release of “Emilia Pérez,” Netflix’s highly touted Oscar contender. Yet, it hasn’t been without controversy – criticism has mounted, particularly after its four Golden Globe wins on Sunday, with some calling it racist and filled with stereotypes. However, while walking the red carpet at the Golden Globes, Issa López, the mastermind behind “True Detective: Night Country,” defended “Emilia Pérez.

At this year’s awards ceremony, I was thrilled to see my movie, “Emilia Pérez,” sweep several categories, including Best Comedy/Musical Film, Best Song, Best Non-English Language Film, and Best Supporting Actress for the exceptional Zoe Saldaña. However, it seems our production has generated some debate since its initial screening at the 2024 Cannes International Film Festival, where we garnered even more recognition with the Jury Award and a hat trick of Best Actress accolades for our stellar trio – Zoe, Selena Gomez, and Karla Sofía Gascón.

In this movie, titled character Gascón – played by trans actress Emilia Pérez – portrays a ruthless leader of a Mexican cartel. She enlists the aid of a lawyer (Saldaña) to facilitate her escape and pursue her long-held desire of transitioning into a woman. The production also delves into Latino culture, which has garnered extra scrutiny from certain members of the community due to director Jacques Audiard being non-Latino.

As I walked the Golden Globes red carpet, I found myself in a unique position to discuss the powerful film I had just seen. In an interview with CNN en Español, I spoke about the French director’s work and the thought-provoking themes it presented – gender identity and Latin American violence. My comments were later translated by The Wrap for those who may not speak Spanish.

As a Mexican, when you learn about Audiard’s movie, you might wonder, “Will this portray an authentic depiction of gender identity and the harsh reality of violence in Latin America, particularly Mexico?” Upon viewing it, I was astounded. I believe he surpasses any contemporary Mexican filmmaker tackling these themes… The movie is a true masterpiece.

Is ‘Emilia Pérez’ a “Masterpiece” or a “Problematic” Mess?

One individual using X expressed that Emilia Pérez was “extremely prejudiced and fearful of others, poorly representing Mexico.” A different user advocated for trusting those with a Mexican background who criticize the movie.

If Mexicans say that a movie set in Mexico, made by a French director who has never visited Mexico and claims he didn’t need to research for it, presents stereotypes, ignorance, disrespect, and is making money off one of the most critical humanitarian issues in Mexico (the mass disappearances), they are expressing concern that the film does not accurately represent Mexico and instead exploits a serious crisis.
Maybe.just maybe, believe Mexicans. Listen to them, perhaps?
The fact that the actors don’t even speak Spanish is the least of the problematic issues.
But you do you, I guess.
And that’s showbiz, niño.”

Evan Romano, the culture editor for Men’s Health magazine, pointed out that Emilia Pérez could be one of the most significant annual single-category declines in Oscar history. It’s not unusual for the Oscars to see winners from the past who struggle to maintain their relevance over time. For instance, consider 2004’s Crash and 2011’s The Artist.

Is ‘Emilia Pérez’ a “Masterpiece” or a “Problematic” Mess?

Read More