Best International Feature Film at the 2025 Oscars – Is Emilia Perez the One to Beat?

The 2025 Academy Awards are almost upon us, and the race for Best International Feature Film is heating up. While several strong contenders are vying for the coveted statuette, Jacques Audiard’s “Emilia Perez” initially emerged as a frontrunner, garnering a surprising 13 nominations, a record for a non-English language film. However, recent controversy surrounding star Karla Sofía Gascón has thrown the film’s awards prospects into question, leaving many wondering if it can still claim victory.

A Bold and Controversial Contender

“Emilia Perez” tells the story of a Mexican cartel leader who undergoes a gender transition and seeks the help of a lawyer to disappear. Premiering at the Cannes Film Festival in May 2024, the film garnered critical acclaim, winning the Jury Prize and the Best Actress award for its ensemble cast. The film’s musical numbers, direction, and performances, particularly Gascón’s, were lauded. The Academy took notice, showering the film with nominations, including Best Picture, Best Director, and a historic Best Actress nomination for Gascón, the first openly trans woman to be recognized in the category. These accolades, coupled with Golden Globe wins for Best Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy and Best Foreign Language Film, solidified “Emilia Perez” as an early Oscar favorite.

The Scandal and its Impact

Just weeks before the ceremony, however, controversy erupted. Resurfaced social media posts by Gascón containing derogatory comments sparked outrage, forcing Netflix, the film’s distributor, into damage control. Gascón issued an apology, but subsequent attempts to clarify her remarks further fueled the fire. Netflix distanced itself from the actress, removing her from promotional materials and reportedly declining to cover her travel expenses for awards events. This scandal has undoubtedly cast a shadow over the film’s campaign, raising questions about how Academy voters will react.

Despite the controversy, the odds over at 22bet21.com are listed at 1.61/1 or 62.10%, so there’s a strong chance the film may still snag the prize.

A Formidable Challenger Emerges

Amid the “Emilia Perez” controversy, another powerful contender has entered the spotlight: “I’m Still Here,” directed by Walter Salles. Based on a true story, the film chronicles the struggle of Eunice Paiva, a mother and activist whose husband, a dissident politician, disappeared during Brazil’s military dictatorship. “I’m Still Here” has earned widespread critical acclaim, particularly for Fernanda Torres’s performance as Eunice. The film’s success at the Venice Film Festival, where it won Best Screenplay, and its nominations for Best Picture and Best Actress at the Oscars, mark it as a serious threat to “Emilia Perez.” Furthermore, the film’s political resonance and its exploration of themes of resilience and resistance could resonate with voters, particularly in a politically charged climate.

The Path to Victory

The Best International Feature Film category is notoriously difficult to predict. While “Emilia Perez” initially seemed poised for victory, the surrounding controversy has undoubtedly impacted its chances. The Academy is known for rewarding artistic merit, but it is also sensitive to public perception. Whether voters will be able to separate the art from the artist remains to be seen.

“I’m Still Here,” with its powerful story and critical acclaim, presents a compelling alternative. The film’s lack of controversy and its focus on important historical events could sway voters seeking a less contentious choice. Furthermore, its Best Picture nomination signals strong support within the Academy.

The Verdict

While “Emilia Perez” remains a significant contender, the controversy surrounding Gascón has undeniably weakened its position. “I’m Still Here,” with its powerful narrative and lack of baggage, has emerged as a strong challenger, potentially capitalizing on the uncertainty surrounding “Emilia Perez.” Ultimately, the winner will depend on the individual preferences of Academy voters and their willingness to overlook the controversy surrounding “Emilia Perez.” The race for Best International Feature Film at the 97th Academy Awards is now a true nail-biter, with the outcome hanging in the balance.