Emilia Pérez (2024)

Emilia Pérez features a trans woman whose transition is intertwined with her identity as a violent drug lord. While aiming for a unique perspective, the film draws criticism for potentially reinforcing harmful stereotypes about trans individuals and trivializing gender confirmation surgeries through its narrative and musical elements, leading to a problematic overall portrayal.

"Emilia Pérez" portrays its transsexual protagonist, a former cartel leader, in a widely criticized manner. The film depicts her as manipulative and violent, linking her transition to repentance for past sins, which critics deem problematic. Elements like her voice reverting to a deeper tone reinforce harmful anti-trans stereotypes. Despite a trans actress in the lead, the narrative is largely seen as a cisgender perspective that undermines authentic and positive trans representation, resulting in a net negative impact.

The film, set in Mexico, features characters established as Mexican. The casting of Zoe Saldaña, who is of Dominican and Puerto Rican heritage, as the Mexican character Rita represents a shift in broader racial categories, thus meeting the definition of a race swap.

The film features a minor character, Dr. Wasserman, who is explicitly identified as a 'nice Jewish doctor.' This brief portrayal associates Judaism with a positive, helpful figure, aligning with a respectful depiction.