2025 BAFTA awards: Jacques Audiard salutes Emilia Pérez and Karla Sofía Gascón
At this year's prestigious BAFTA awards, Jacques Audiard made a heartfelt gesture. Even though Karla Sofía Gascón wasn't present, Audiard, who directed "Emilia Pérez," a unique Spanish-language musical, took a moment under London's Royal Festival Hall lights. The film snagged Best Film not in English, and Audiard's recognition was both professional and personal.
A heartfelt tribute from a director
During his emotional acceptance speech, Audiard showered praise on his remarkable cast who brought "Emilia Pérez" alive. Speaking in French, with translations helping those in attendance, he didn't hold back. "First and foremost," he said, "I want so much gratitude towards all you talented souls who made this film possible. Zoe, Selena, Giorgini, Paul, Juliet, Camille, Clement, Julia, and your crews, and especially you, my dear Karla Sofia.” His pride was palpable. “I'm so proud. Long live 'Emilia Pérez'!"
Karla Sofía Gascón's groundbreaking role and controversies
Gascón wasn't there, but her absence was noteworthy, especially given her Best Actress nod. Playing Emilia Pérez—a former cartel leader starting anew after gender-affirming surgery—marked a significant chapter. She was paving a new path as she became BAFTA's first publicly trans woman nominee in an acting category.
Yet, as often happens, past controversies cast a shadow. Gascón's old tweets criticizing Islam and diversity at award shows, including her Oscar nomination, caught attention. Because these incidents resurfaced, she skipped several major events leading up.
Audiard's take on tough matters
Jacques Audiard decided on silence regarding Gascón's controversies. He mentioned, "I haven't spoken with her. She seems on a path that no one can veer. It puzzles me." Her actions, he lamented, affected not just her, but their film family. "Why hurt herself and those who worked so hard?" Audiard wondered aloud, feeling deeply about its impact.
Zoë Saldaña honors Gascón
Zoë Saldaña, another shining star from "Emilia Pérez," spoke warmly about Gascón during her Best Supporting Actress speech. Triumphing over talents like Ariana Grande and Jamie Lee Curtis, Saldaña acknowledged BAFTA and reminisced, “What a journey with Jacques Audiard.” She highlighted film's power, saying, "Movies should shake us up and open our hearts. I hope I did a bit. Just maybe not with my English accent," she quipped, lightening up her moment.
The ongoing story behind Emilia Pérez
"Emilia Pérez" isn't just a film; it ignites conversations about bold narratives and real-life complexities. It stands strong as a beacon showcasing diverse storytelling power, with controversies reminding us how social expectations are ever-shifting.
As this award season carries on, everyone—viewers and creators alike—are encouraged by "Emilia Pérez" not only onscreen magic but also its offscreen journey, urging reflection on inclusivity and realizing how past actions inevitably shape present futures.
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