The critically acclaimed musical “Emilia Pérez” dominated the 30th annual Critics Choice Awards on Saturday, securing multiple honors while navigating a complex backdrop of recent cast-related tensions.
The film won three major awards: Best Supporting Actress for Zoe Saldaña, Best International Film for director Jacques Audiard, and Best Original Song for “El Mal” by Camille and Clement Ducol.
Notably, lead actor Karla Sofía Gascón was absent from the ceremony following controversial social media posts that sparked widespread criticism. Gascón, who made history as the first openly trans Oscar nominee, has chosen to remain silent during the ongoing awards season.
Saldaña delivered an emotionally charged acceptance speech, reading from a handwritten note instead of the teleprompter. “My wish for the impact of this film is that we can all be curious and openhearted towards each other,” she told the audience. She concluded with a lighthearted reference to her role in the Avatar franchise, adding, “Stay curious, stay kind and stay blue (not too blue).”
The film’s awards success appears unaffected by the recent controversy. Critics Choice Awards voting closed on January 10th, weeks before Gascón’s social media incident erupted. Gascón was nominated for Best Actress but lost to Demi Moore for “The Substance.”
Songwriter Camille, accepting the award for “El Mal,” briefly acknowledged the season’s intensity before lightening the mood with an impromptu musical moment.
The film’s awards season momentum continues, with upcoming nominations at the Directors Guild of America Awards and Producers Guild of America Awards. Its previous success includes four wins at the Golden Globes, including Best Comedy/Musical Feature.
Despite the current challenges, “Emilia Pérez” remains a strong contender in this year’s awards season, demonstrating the film’s artistic merits beyond individual controversies.
