Critics’ Choice Awards 2025: Will Zoe Saldana Win Best Supporting Actress for Emilia Perez?

Zoë Saldana, a name synonymous with blockbuster science fiction, has cemented her place as a Hollywood powerhouse. From the vast expanse of Pandora in Avatar to the quirky galaxy of Guardians of the Galaxy, Saldana has consistently delivered captivating performances. However, her latest role in the Spanish-language musical crime film Emilia Pérez presents a unique opportunity for the actress, showcasing her versatility and potentially earning her a Critics’ Choice Award for Best Supporting Actress.

Saldana’s Diverse Career Trajectory

Saldana’s journey to stardom began with roles in Center Stage and Crossroads, but it was her portrayal of Nyota Uhura in the Star Trek reboot and Neytiri in Avatar that propelled her into the stratosphere of Hollywood’s elite. Her involvement in some of the highest-grossing films of all time has solidified her box office draw, but Emilia Pérez offers a departure from the sci-fi genre that has defined much of her career. This film allows her to explore a character with complex emotional depth and moral ambiguity, a stark contrast to the often physically demanding roles she’s known for.

Emilia Pérez: A Critical Darling

Emilia Pérez, directed by Jacques Audiard, has garnered significant critical acclaim, earning accolades at the Cannes Film Festival and the Golden Globes. The film’s unique blend of musical numbers, crime drama, and LGBTQ+ themes has resonated with audiences and critics alike. Saldana’s performance as Rita Mora Castro, the lawyer entangled in the complex web of Emilia Pérez’s life, has been singled out for praise. Her portrayal of a woman grappling with her own moral compass while navigating the dangerous world of cartels and personal transformation adds a layer of emotional depth to the film’s already intricate narrative.

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A Competitive Field

Saldana faces formidable competition in the Best Supporting Actress category. The nominees include established and rising stars, each delivering powerful performances in their respective films. Danielle Deadwyler’s work in The Piano Lesson, Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor’s role in Nickel Boys, Ariana Grande’s performance in Wicked, Margaret Qualley’s contribution to The Substance, and Isabella Rossellini’s presence in Conclave all represent significant achievements in acting. This diverse and talented group of nominees makes the race for Best Supporting Actress particularly exciting and unpredictable.

Saldana’s Chances: A Strong Contender

Despite the stiff competition, Saldana has a strong chance of winning. Her performance in Emilia Pérez demonstrates a range and depth that expands beyond her established sci-fi repertoire. The film’s critical success and multiple award nominations provide further momentum for Saldana’s campaign. Her portrayal of Rita, a character caught between her professional obligations and personal ethics, resonates with audiences and showcases Saldana’s ability to embody complex and flawed characters. The role demands a nuanced performance, and Saldana delivers, capturing the internal struggle of a woman navigating a morally ambiguous landscape.

Regardless of the outcome at the Critics’ Choice Awards, Saldana’s performance in Emilia Pérez marks a significant turning point in her career. It demonstrates her versatility as an actress and her willingness to take on challenging roles outside her comfort zone. The film’s exploration of complex themes, coupled with Saldana’s compelling performance, solidifies her status not just as a box office draw, but as a respected and versatile actress capable of tackling diverse and demanding roles. Emilia Pérez serves as a testament to her evolving career and her potential to continue captivating audiences with her talent for years to come.