Jacques Audiard’s latest film, ‘Emilia Perez,’ made a grand entrance at the Cannes Film Festival, receiving an impressive 11-minute standing ovation during its world premiere. The Spanish-language musical crime comedy, starring Zoe Saldana, Selena Gomez, Karla Sofia Gascon, and Edgar Ramirez, captivated the audience at the Palais des Festivals.
Director Audiard expressed his gratitude to the viewers as the credits rolled, sparking another round of applause that lasted an additional two minutes. The emotional impact of the film was evident, with Saldana, Gascon, and Gomez visibly moved to tears by the overwhelming reception.
Returning to Cannes after his 2021 feature, ‘Paris, 13th District,’ Audiard presents a compelling narrative focused on Rita, played by Saldana, a lawyer disillusioned by her firm’s ethical compromises. When approached by cartel leader Manitas, portrayed by Gascon, Rita embarks on a transformative journey that blurs the lines between justice and personal reinvention.
Collaborating with Thomas Bidegain and Lea Mysius on the screenplay, Audiard delivers a unique blend of crime, comedy, and music, promising audiences an immersive cinematic experience. With its French release scheduled for August 28 and international sales managed by The Veterans, ‘Emilia Perez’ stands out as a highlight of this year’s Cannes lineup, captivating viewers with its storytelling and stellar performances.