PARIS — The movie “Emilia Pérez” recently garnered the prestigious title of best French film at the Césars awards, France’s equivalent of the Oscars. The event also marked a rare public appearance by under-fire actress Karla Sofia Gascón, who plays a significant role in Jacques Audiard’s Mexican-set melodrama.
The film, recognized for its musical elements, has been both lauded and criticized, particularly for its portrayal of Mexican culture. Furthermore, it has sparked controversy due to Gascón’s prior social media remarks criticizing Muslims, George Floyd, and diversity at the Oscars.
While Gascón was nominated for the best actress award alongside her co-star Zoe Saldaña, she left without the accolade. Nonetheless, “Emilia Pérez” emerged as the night’s biggest winner, securing an impressive seven awards. Audiard, having earlier denounced Gascón’s controversial statements, expressed his gratitude toward his team and female cast members.
In his acceptance speech, Audiard emphasized the love and admiration he holds for his team and actors, mentioning Zoe Saldaña, Karla, and others not present, like Adriana Paz and Selena Gomez. “When I say my team it’s not in the sense of ownership, but a declaration of love,” he stated.
The controversy surrounding Gascón reignited in January when old messages from her former X account, dating back to 2016, came into the spotlight. In them, Gascón criticized Muslim attire, language, and culture in Spain, even suggesting a ban on Islam. Additionally, in 2020, following the murder of George Floyd by a Minneapolis police officer, Gascón described Floyd as a “drug addict whom very few people ever cared for,” drawing widespread backlash.
Playing the role of a transgender cartel boss in “Emilia Pérez,” Gascón has retreated from the film’s promotional activities, but her work has secured an astounding 13 Oscar nominations. Audiard stands firm in his disapproval of her past comments.
Should the film succeed at the Oscars on Sunday, it would secure Netflix their inaugural best picture victory. Gascón, as the first openly transgender actor nominated for best actress, faces dwindling chances of winning; however, a victory would mark a significant milestone.
Apologizing for her previous statements, Gascón attended the landmark 50th Césars ceremony, overseen by Catherine Deneuve at the Olympia theater in Paris. Though she opted not to speak to reporters, she was present in a distinguished black dress, acknowledging photographers.
Zoe Saldaña made a quick trip to Paris prior to gracing the Oscars red carpet, where she is heavily favored to win the best supporting actress category. At the Césars, Gascón and Saldaña competed for the best actress accolade but were bested by Hafsia Herzi for her role in “Borgo.” The best actor award went to Karim Leklou for his part in “Le Roman de Jim” (Jim’s Story).
Additionally, Hollywood’s Julia Roberts was present in Paris, receiving an honorary César for her extensive contributions to cinema. The award was presented by Clive Owen, a co-star from their films “Closer” and “Duplicity,” culminating in a standing ovation from admirers and attendees alike.
