It may have been embraced by the Academy, but just a day after its debut in Mexico, the acclaimed "narco-musical" Emilia Pérez was already drawing sharp rebukes for superficial portrayals of sensitive subjects.

Actress Adriana Paz, the only Mexican in the main cast of 'Emilia Perez,' says in an interview with EFE that if the film wins at the Oscars, “the triumph” would also be for Mexico, where the film has sparked controversy for its portrayal of drug trafficking and the disappearance of people.

French director Jacques Audiard defended and apologized for his film “Emilia Pérez” at its Mexican premiere Wednesday.

Actress Adriana Paz gives a press conference to promote the film "Emilia Perez," in Mexico City, Wednesday, Jan. 15, 2025. (AP Photo/)

As it earned a record 13 Oscar nominations, Jacques Audiard's Spanish-language film Emilia Perez Is facing criticism in Mexico, where it is set.