Selena Gomez made a confident appearance at the Toronto International Film Festival, generating excitement among fans. However, she admitted to feeling nervous about her first Spanish-speaking role in the upcoming Netflix movie “Emilia Pérez” during a premiere screening at the festival. In the film, Gomez portrays the wife of a Mexican cartel leader who undergoes gender-confirming surgery to embrace a new identity as Emilia.
Alongside co-stars Zoe Saldana, Karla Sofia Gascon, and Adriana Paz, Gomez was part of the award-winning ensemble at the Cannes Film Festival. The movie combines fantastical song-and-dance numbers with an emotional narrative, delving into complex character relationships. The actresses expressed their admiration for director Jacques Audiard’s ability to develop empathy for characters outside their usual realm of understanding.
Gascon’s portrayal of both Manitas and Emilia has positioned her as an early favorite for the best actress category, and she may become the first openly trans performer to be nominated. Her emotional attachment to the role was evident as she interacted with the audience following the premiere. Gascon found playing Manitas more enjoyable due to her personal connection with the character, and she humorously downplayed her singing skills in the film.
