Zoe Saldaña has had a remarkable year, with two of her projects, Emilia Pérez and the short Dovecote, making it to the Oscars 2025 shortlist.
The actress, known for her roles in big franchises like Avatar and Guardians of the Galaxy, is feeling more celebratory than ever. In Emilia Pérez, directed by Jacques Audiard, Saldaña plays Rita, a lawyer drawn into the world of a Mexican drug lord.
Saldaña’s role is the result of a career-long wish to speak Spanish, dance, and be part of a musical. Her performance has earned her nominations for Best Supporting Actress at the Golden Globes and Critics Choice Awards, and a shared Best Actress award at Cannes.
Saldaña describes Rita as intelligent but timid, someone who struggles to advocate for herself despite her talents. She related to Rita’s suffocation, feeling the pressure of circumstances beyond her control, and incorporated her own experiences as a daughter of immigrants into the character.
The role in Emilia Pérez has been liberating for Saldaña, allowing her to go all in and explore her character’s depth. Unlike her previous roles in ensemble films, where she had less control, Saldaña felt fully heard and seen in this project.
Working with director James Cameron on Avatar set a standard for her collaboration style, where she felt empowered to fully execute her character.
Saldaña also highlights the joy of working with a sisterhood in Emilia Pérez, where the weight of the story is shared among the actresses. The film’s centerpiece number, “El Mal,” was a turning point for her character, allowing Rita to express rage and frustration that she had been holding back.
Looking back on her career, Saldaña feels proud of her journey and the growth she’s experienced. She’s excited for the future, hoping to continue evolving as both a person and an artist. Emilia Pérez is now streaming on Netflix.
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