Why is “Emilia Perez” causing controversy? Inside criticism about the casting, French director, Mexican setting and transgender representation, and what stars and director have said.

"Emilia Perez," starring Karla Sofía Gascón, Selena Gomez and Zoe Saldaña, has been criticized for its quality, authenticity, and trans representation.

The French musical scored the most nominations of any movie this year, but it also faces criticism on multiple fronts.

Jacques Audiard’s “Emilia Pérez” leads the nominations with 13, including best picture and a best actress nod for Karla Sofía Gascón, the first openly trans actor ever nominated. See the full list.

Jacques Audiard’s Spanish-language cartel musical has garnered a lot of buzz this Oscar season — good and bad. Here's everything to know about the 'Emilia Pérez' discourse.

Emilia Pérez is set in Mexico and tackles sensitive topics like drug trafficking, gang violence and missing persons. Critics note that someone who hasn’t lived in Mexico under such threats might not be the best person to tell such a story, and some even accused the movie of perpetuating stereotypes.

The Brutalist” and “Wicked” secured 10 nominations apiece in a year with a wide-open best picture race. Acting nominees include Demi Moore, Cynthia Erivo, Adrien Brody and Timothée Chalamet.

Ready to catch up on the 2025 Oscar movies? You can stream these 10 nominees right now on Netflix, Max, Peacock and Hulu (or buy or rent them).

With a baker’s dozen nominations, including the first for an openly transgender actress, “Emilia Pérez” has emerged as the Oscar front-runner.

Emilia Pérez” is quickly becoming an awards-show favorite, raking in four Golden Globe wins and 13 Oscar nominations — plus SAG Award nods, too.