Jacques Audiards Emilia Prez isnt your typical crime drama. This fever-dream musical, packed with vibrant visuals and audacious storytelling, follows the journey of Emilia, a powerful cartel leader in Mexico, on her path to self-discovery and redemption. But heres the twist: Emilia (Karla Sofa Gascn) enlists Rita (Zoe Saldaa), a fed-up lawyer, to help her fake her own death. Why? To finally live as her true self.With stunning performances from Karla Sofa Gascn, Zoe Saldaa, Selena Gomez, Adriana Paz, and Edgar Ramrez, this film stands out as a daring exploration of identity, love, and redemptionall through the lens of unapologetic song, dance, and raw emotion. Heres everything that makes Emilia Prez an unforgettable cinematic journey.Related | Queer Creatives Find Friendship in the Search for Mavis BeaconA Plot That Defies ConventionsNETFLIXIn Emilia Prez, Audiard (known for Rust and Bone and A Prophet) blends genre-defying elements to tell Emilias storya character who, after years as a ruthless cartel leader, decides to abandon it all to live life on her terms. This journey, filled with high stakes and hidden romance, allows Emilia to finally embrace her identity. Gascn, who plays Emilia, hopes audiences walk away with a profound sense of empathy and acceptance. I hope that all audiences see that there are people who are different among us who deserve all due respect, Gascn shares.But its not just Emilias transformation that makes the story so compelling. The film highlights Emilias LGBTQ+ relationship with Epifana (Adriana Paz), a love story that radiates tenderness and vulnerability, making it feel both real and quietly revolutionary. Gascn adds, I want people to focus on this beautiful LGBTQ relationship just that its something normal.A Story with Heart, Grit, and Feminine StrengthNETFLIXAudiards female-led cast delivers power-packed performances that range from fierce to tender. Zoe Saldaas portrayal of Rita brings a mix of humor and resilience to the screen, especially during an electrifying musical number, El Mal. Saldaa recalls the intensity of filming it: Im so proud of my work Its a moment in Ritas life where we rehearsed, prepared, discussed, and then just threw ourselves into it.Adriana Paz, who plays Epifana, shines as the grounding force for Emilia. Pazs character radiates warmth, hope, and a softness that contrasts beautifully with the hard edges of Emilias past. She explains, People think being vulnerable is weak, but kindness and tenderness are strengths If we do things with love, the results are always going to be better.NETFLIXThe Power of Music and DanceMusic isnt just an element of Emilia Prezits the soul of the film. Clment Ducol and Camilles original score weaves through the story, elevating emotional moments to new heights. For Adriana Paz, her solo number holds a special place: Its a whole experience, but I really enjoyed watching that part and singing as well. The musical moments capture the tension, release, and passion that define Emilias journey.Selena Gomez also brings her spark to the cast, portraying Jessi, a supporting character who lights up the screen with her own bold energy. Gomez shares that working on Emilia Prez was a learning experience, saying, Im grateful we get to celebrate [our true selves], however it looks.NETFLIXA Celebration of Queer Love and LiberationAt its core, Emilia Prez celebrates love, liberation, and authenticity. Audiards vision turns a crime drama into a transformative journey of self-acceptance. With a diverse cast and themes of queer love, Emilia Prez holds a mirror to societys evolving understanding of identity and respect. Saldaa sums up the films message: I hope people take away that love can conquer anything Its important to just lead with your heart.Emilia Prez is a striking reminder that love, in all its forms, deserves a voice. With its fearless story and powerful performances, this film marks a new era for queer cinema, one where every characters story deserves to be told.Watch the full interview below. Emilia Prez will be in select theaters on November 1 and on Netflix on November 13.More Stories: Emilia Prez: A Bold New Queer Love Story That Breaks All the RulesShawn Mendes Opens Up About His Sexuality On StageDaniel Craig Falls Hard For Drew Starkey in New Queer TrailerThe Housekeeper: Uma Thurman & Phoebe Dynevor Explore a Forbidden Love in New Period DramaThese Gay Dads Are Helping LGBTQ+ Couples Have BabiesThe post Emilia Prez: A Bold New Queer Love Story That Breaks All the Rules appeared first on Gayety.