Emilia Perez – Movie Reviews by Ry!

Emilia Perez – A Soul’s Truth in the Eyes of Fate

In the world of film, what becomes a will against circumstance is the power of mastering the moment.  No matter genre, story or characters … if you can feel that moment, there is a sense of understanding the meaning at hand.  In this review, I look at the latest Netflix/Drama film.  Through choice and fate, we follow individuals who try to find their purpose in society.  Even when it feels directionless, Emilia Perez is a gripping journey into what it means to live your life … your way. 

When choices and fate become one in the same, three individuals will embark on a journey of what it means to live life … and be true to yourself.  To begin, please refer to the film’s IMDb Page for a list of actors/actresses (link).  The journey of a tale is one enraptured by a meaningful touch.  To see a tale unfold (without any prenotions), provides a way to enjoy (or not) what is at hand.  In the beginning, we come into this world through a mixture of general exposition and musical reverie, being introduced to Rita, a lawyer who is trying to make a name in Mexico.  After a series of convenient plot driven scenes, she is enlisted by a Cartel leader to fake their death so they can live a different life as Emilia Perez.  From here, the film shifts between various musical scenes, before settling on a characterized narrative on three individuals: Rita, Emilia and Jessi (the former Cartel boss’ wife).  With a general focal point (for the narrative), the filmmakers build through characterization to showcase how these three deal with the unique circumstance, each trying to find a place of purpose in the Mexican society.  At this point, this film becomes a hodge podge of vicarious moments, one that propels a strong focus on individuality through the aspect of culture and music.  The musical like elements help infuse a sense of intrigue, but it also can feel like a distraction to the deeply woven character narrative.  As you move through each scene with Rita, Emilia and Jessi, their individual paths (at times) become lost in the unfocused direction.  Even as things feel loose, the poignancy of the characters keep the journey on an even keel … one that showcases the power of the moment.

As the three continue to maneuver through Mexican society, additional fateful encounters lift the layers of the past and present, infused within the musical melodies.  As things continue through its weaving thread, it begins to build through themes of societal norms/acceptance and political violence.  These themes start to unravel the positive momentum, leaving the three in a precarious situation of fate.  As things unravel, we head into a third act that is contrived but very emotional.  With things left to fate, we come to a heartfelt climax and full circle epilogue.  Emilia Perez is a film of many great moments but stricken by its loose direction.  If you are a fan of musicals, dramas or foreign films, this is one for you.  It is available on Netflix, but it would have been fun to see it on the big screen.

Full Score – 3.5 out of 5 (Matinee)

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