Jacques Audiard’s “Emilia Pérez” is an Oscar contender unlike any other. It’s a musical, a trans parable, and a Mexico-set melodrama.

"Emilia Pérez" has faced controversy and criticism for various reasons. Among the most prominent is its portrayal of Mexico. The movie’s director, Jacques Audiard, is French, and none of its three lead cast members are of Mexican descent. Only one member of the core cast, Adriana Paz, is from Mexico.

Although it's set in Mexico City, French film 'Emilia Pérez' ran into a frost reception on its opening there. Critics cited stereotypes and the lack of a clear message about the narcos it portrays.