Emilia Pérez—the controversial French lesbian trans crime musical (in Spanish) about a Mexican drug cartel leader who transitions in order to both escape and to lead a fuller life—has emerged as a roaring Oscar contender,

"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.

Emilia Pérez garnered brutal reviews, with fans labeling it as the worst movie ever.Despite its 13 impressive nominations, the Mexican movie was bombarded with haters and

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.