Zoe Saldaña Wins First Oscar for ‘Emilia Pérez’ in Career-Defining Role
Zoe Saldaña wins Best Supporting Actress at the 2025 Oscars for her role in Emilia Pérez, marking a milestone in her Hollywood career.
Zoe Saldaña clinched her first Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress on Sunday, March 2, 2025, for her portrayal of Rita Mora Castro in the musical crime drama “Emilia Pérez.” This accolade crowns a triumphant awards season, with Saldaña previously securing the Golden Globe, BAFTA, and SAG awards for the same role.
A Transformative Role in ‘Emilia Pérez’
In “Emilia Pérez,” Saldaña embodies Rita Mora Castro, a Mexico City lawyer enlisted by cartel leader Juan “Manitas” del Monte to orchestrate his faked death and subsequent gender-affirming surgery, allowing him to live as Emilia Pérez, portrayed by Karla Sofía Gascón. The film delves into themes of identity, transformation, and redemption, blending elements of crime drama and musical theater.
Saldaña’s Career Milestone
At 46, Saldaña’s Oscar win marks a significant milestone in her nearly 25-year career. She has been a prominent figure in Hollywood, known for her roles in blockbuster franchises such as “Avatar,” “Star Trek,” and “Guardians of the Galaxy.” Her portrayal of Rita Mora Castro showcases her versatility and depth as an actress, earning her widespread critical acclaim.
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‘Emilia Pérez’: A Film of Many Facets
Directed by Jacques Audiard, “Emilia Pérez” is a French musical crime film that tells the story of a Mexican cartel leader seeking to transition into a woman with the help of a lawyer. The film features a diverse cast, including Saldaña, Gascón, Selena Gomez, Adriana Paz, and Édgar Ramírez. It combines elements of drama, music, and crime, offering a unique cinematic experience.
Critical Reception and Controversies
While “Emilia Pérez” has been lauded for its performances and innovative storytelling, it has also faced criticism, particularly regarding cultural representation and the portrayal of sensitive themes. Some critics argue that the film presents an inauthentic depiction of Mexican culture and relies on stereotypes. Additionally, past offensive tweets by co-star Karla Sofía Gascón have resurfaced, leading to further controversy.
A Historic Night at the Oscars
The 97th Academy Awards, hosted by Conan O’Brien at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles, celebrated the best in film. “Emilia Pérez” led with 13 nominations, the most for any foreign-language film. Saldaña’s win for Best Supporting Actress was among the night’s highlights, underscoring her remarkable talent and dedication to her craft.
Zoe Saldaña’s Oscar win for “Emilia Pérez” not only recognizes her outstanding performance but also highlights her significant contributions to the film industry. Despite the controversies surrounding the film, Saldaña’s portrayal of Rita Mora Castro stands as a testament to her versatility and commitment as an actress.
(Disclaimer: The information presented in this article is based on available sources as of March 3, 2025. Some details, such as the film’s plot and critical reception, are derived from these sources and may be subject to change as more information becomes available.)
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