The feature film by French director Jacques Audiard, Emilia Perezmarked Golden Globe nominations announced. In fact, he received no less than ten nominations. The film tells the story of a Mexican drug lord. This one, played by transgender actress Karla Sofía Gascón, change your life to become a woman. A daring choice which received a rave reception from the press and spectators.
The film, which received the jury prize at the last Cannes Film Festivalis shot almost entirely in Spanish. It takes the viewer between thriller and telenovela, in a unique register of its kind. Selena Gomez and Zoe Saldaña play the main roles. The choice to shoot almost entirely in Spanish, however, was the source of criticism. Indeed, Selena Gomez was singled out by Eugenio Derbezan actor originally from the Spanish-speaking community in the United States.
Selena Gomez responds to the controversy
A new controversy has therefore erupted in the world of cinema in the United States. Eugenio Derbez openly criticized Selena Gomez's performance in Emilia Perez. He totally let loose during a discussion in the podcast Talking about Cinema. The Mexican actor called Selena's performance“indefensible”. Very strong words which reached the ears of the main person concerned.
Selena Gomez, who plays Jessi del Monte in the film, reacted calmly on his social networks. She said she did the best she could with the time she had. She said that although her Spanish was imperfect, she put her heart into it. This desire to ease the climate of tension was not enough to put out the fire. Many fans of the actress attacked Eugenio Derbez directly. He was forced to explain himself after his remarks.
The excuses of Eugenio Derbez
Faced with growing controversy, Eugenio Derbez issued a public apology. The actor admitted that his comments were « don't think » and did not reflect his values. He insisted on the importance of supporting each other among Latino artists. Besides his apologies, he also addressed the necessary efforts to be made to overcome linguistic and cultural barriers. He also expressed his admiration for Selena Gomez and her humanitarian commitment.
This controversy has also highlighted a debate on the cultural identity of Latin Americans. In fact, the Hispanic community represents 18.7% of the United States population, or 62.1 million people. Yet many, like Selena Gomez, do not speak Spanish fluently. A real thorny subject on the other side of the Atlantic. Flamin’Hota film directed by Eva Longoria, also addressed this sensitive issue of the integration of Latin Americans to American society.
