The narrative surrounding Emilia Pérez has finally reached its climax. Last Sunday night, during the Academy Awards, the film concluded its tumultuous journey through awards season with two accolades: Best Supporting Actress for Zoe Saldaña and Best Original Song for “El Mal.” Despite these wins, the film’s portrayal of Mexican culture and trans experiences remains a contentious topic, sparking debates about authenticity and representation.

Controversy Meets Celebration: An Unsettling Victory

As Camille and Clément Ducol took to the stage to accept their award for “El Mal,” many viewers were left feeling uneasy. The French musical directors, who crafted much of the soundtrack, faced criticism for their handling of both music production and thematic content. While their technical skills in arranging and producing are commendable, the lyrics and themes often missed the mark. The song, which was meant to denounce corruption, could have been an opportunity to address the pressing issues faced by marginalized groups, particularly the trans community. Instead, it felt like a missed chance to give voice to those who needed it most.

The Soundtrack's Cultural Disconnect

The soundtrack of Emilia Pérez is a reflection of the film’s broader issues. Despite being set in Mexico City, the music largely fails to capture the essence of Mexican culture. The opening track, “Fierro Viejo,” incorporates ambient sounds from the city, but the rest of the album strays far from authentic Mexican influences. This oversight is especially glaring given the rise of música mexicana and the vibrant local artists who could have enriched the film’s narrative. The lack of Mexican perspectives in both the film and its music underscores a deeper problem: the absence of genuine cultural representation.The use of Mexican slang in “El Mal” feels forced and superficial, as if the writers consulted a checklist rather than engaging with the language organically. Meanwhile, Karla Sofía Gascón’s vocals, while operatic, are artificially enhanced, further distancing the soundtrack from a natural, heartfelt expression. The scene where Rita confronts corrupt politicians at a gala is powerful, yet the song’s impact is diminished by its disconnect from the lived experiences of the people it aims to represent.

Selena Gomez: Lost in Translation

Selena Gomez’s contributions to the soundtrack highlight another layer of controversy. Her songs, such as “Mi Camino” and “Bienvenida,” suffer from linguistic inaccuracies that detract from their emotional resonance. The inability to roll her Rs in “Mi Camino” is a minor but noticeable flaw, while the misinterpretation of “bienvenida” in “Bienvenida” reveals a deeper misunderstanding of the language. These errors could have been easily avoided with more involvement from native speakers or cultural consultants, underscoring the importance of inclusivity in storytelling.Gomez’s performance, despite its catchy melodies, lacks the fluidity needed to fully convey the emotions intended. The simplicity of the lyrics, while making them accessible, also limits their depth. In a film that aims to explore complex themes, this lack of nuance becomes a significant shortcoming.

The Broader Implications: Representation Matters

The controversy surrounding Emilia Pérez extends beyond its music. The film’s portrayal of trans experiences has been widely criticized for its insensitivity and oversimplification. Songs like “La Vaginoplastía” reduce gender-affirmative care to a reductive explanation, while “El Amor” misinterprets the intense feelings of gender dysphoria. These missteps not only undermine the film’s intentions but also perpetuate harmful stereotypes.The Academy’s decision to award Best Original Song to “El Mal” raises questions about the institution’s representation of diverse communities. With limited input from Mexican and trans voices, the win carries an asterisk, symbolizing the ongoing struggle for authentic representation in Hollywood. As the industry continues to evolve, it is crucial to prioritize inclusivity and cultural sensitivity in all aspects of filmmaking.

A Call for Change: Moving Forward with Authenticity

The success of Emilia Pérez at the Oscars serves as a reminder of the importance of authentic storytelling. While the film and its soundtrack have garnered attention, they also highlight the need for greater involvement from the communities they aim to portray. Future projects must strive for deeper cultural immersion, ensuring that the voices of marginalized groups are not only heard but respected.In a world where representation matters more than ever, the lessons learned from Emilia Pérez can guide the entertainment industry toward more meaningful and impactful narratives. By embracing diversity and fostering collaboration, filmmakers can create works that resonate on a profound level, leaving a lasting and positive impact.