In a world still reeling from the effects of the COVID-19 lockdown, a bizarre creation has emerged from Jacques Audiard, the renowned French filmmaker.

While many were confined to their kitchens, Audiard was busy writing the libretto for an opera about a Mexican cartel boss who fakes his death, undergoes gender transition, and campaigns for the victims of the drug war.

The result is the trans-narco-musical fever dream, Emilia Pérez.

Oscar Nominations Break Records

Since its release, the film has captivated Hollywood, earning 13 Oscar nominations—a number only surpassed by three other films in the history of the Academy Awards.

Remarkably, Emilia Pérez holds the distinction of being the most-nominated foreign-language film in the history of the Oscars.

A Polarizing Film

Despite the accolades, the film has generated mixed reactions. While the Hollywood elite showers it with praise, many viewers are less enthused.

The fusion of narco-drama, gender identity, and opera has sparked intense debate about its tone, storytelling, and cultural impact.