Zoe Saldaña Defends Emilia Perez After Backlash From Mexican Critics

KUALA LUMPUR March 4, 2025 – Following her triumph at the 97th Academy Awards, where Zoe Saldana took home the Oscar for Best Supporting Actress, the actress found herself in the midst of a heated controversy surrounding her role in Emilia Perez.

The film, which had already ignited significant backlash, became the focus once again during a press room interview at the prestigious event.

Clashing Of Perspectives

Tensions rose when a Mexican journalist questioned Saldaña on the film’s portrayal of Mexico, which some viewers felt was offensive. According to the reporter, the depiction of the country and its cultural elements in Emilia Perez had caused a great discomfort among Mexicans.

The Best Supporting Actress winner said: “I’m very, very sorry that you and so many Mexicans feel offended, that was never our intention.”

“We came from a place of love, and I will stand by that,” she added, conveying empathy for those who had taken issue with the film.”

Moreover, Saldana was quick to clarify that she disagreed with the sentiment behind the criticism, adding that the core of the movie was not centered around Mexico specifically, but rather four women facing universal struggles.

“We weren’t making a film about a country,” she said. “We were making a film about four women, and these women could have been Russian, Dominican, Black from Detroit, or from Israel, from Gaza, and their stories would still hold weight.”

Embracing the Universal Struggle

For Saldaña, Emilia Perez was not confined to a single national narrative but rather touched on themes of oppression and identity that transcended borders. “These women are struggling every day, trying to survive systemic oppression and find their most authentic voices,” she emphasized.

Her remarks reflected the film’s intention to spotlight the resilience of marginalized women, regardless of nationality. While her response sought to broaden the conversation beyond a national lens, it nonetheless ignited mixed reactions online, with some applauding her stance and others feeling that her response dismissed the legitimate concerns voiced by critics.

A Film at the Center of Controversy

Emilia Pérez had already faced scrutiny in the lead-up to the Oscars, with criticism over its portrayal of various sensitive topics. LGBTQ advocates raised concerns about the film’s representation of trans issues, while some questioned the director’s comments about the Spanish language and the portrayal of Mexican cartels. The film’s journey to the Oscars was far from smooth, but it still managed to secure 13 nominations, ultimately winning two prestigious awards: Best Supporting Actress for Saldaña and Best Original Song for “El Mal,” which Saldaña herself performed in the movie.

Saldaña, who has long been an advocate for respectful discourse, expressed her willingness to continue the conversation about the film’s potential missteps. “I am always open to sit down with my Mexican brothers and sisters and with love and respect, have a great conversation on how Emilia could have been done better,” she said.

As the debate around Emilia Pérez continues, it serves as a reminder of the complexities inherent in representing diverse cultures and voices in mainstream cinema. While the film’s central themes of women’s struggles may resonate universally, the portrayal of specific cultural contexts can be deeply personal and subject to varied interpretations.

Moving Forward

In the wake of the Oscars, Emilia Pérez will continue to generate conversation, and Saldaña’s response to criticism will likely fuel further debates on the portrayal of cultural identities in film. However, one thing is clear: as the film industry navigates the shifting landscape of cultural sensitivity and inclusivity, it is vital for artists and audiences alike to engage in thoughtful, respectful dialogue.

For Saldaña, her journey is far from over as she remains committed to the idea that even the most controversial films can lead to positive change through open discussion and understanding.