Record-Breaking Standing Ovation for Emilia Pérez at Cannes Premiere: Four Stars Shine in Musical Crime Comedy

During the world premiere of Jacques Audiard’s Emilia Pérez at the Cannes Film Festival, a standing ovation that lasted more than 11 minutes greeted the film. The Spanish-language musical crime comedy stars Karla Sofía Gascón, Selena Gomez, Zoe Saldaña, and Édgar Ramirez. All four actors were present for the highly anticipated event during the festival’s first weekend.

As the credits rolled at the end of the movie, Audiard took to the microphone to express his gratitude to the audience at Palais de la Musique. The applause continued for an additional two minutes as tears streamed down the faces of Saldaña, Gascón, and Gomez.

Emilia Pérez tells the story of Rita (Saldaña), a talented but underappreciated lawyer who is given a chance to work with cartel leader Manitas (Gascón) on his plan to leave behind his life of crime and pursue his dream of becoming a woman. The film was written by Audiard, Thomas Bidegain, and Léa Mysius and is set for release in France on August 28 by Pathé with international sales handled by The Veterans. This premiere marked Audiard’s return to competition at Cannes after Paris, 13th District debuted in 2021.