At the 2025 BAFTA Awards, actress Zoe Saldaña received the Best Supporting Actress honor for her compelling role as attorney Rita Mora Castro in Emilia Pérez. In her heartfelt acceptance speech, Saldaña dedicated the award to her transgender nephew, stating, “He is the reason I signed up to do this film.” She emphasized the importance of representation and inclusivity in cinema, expressing hope that the film would inspire understanding and acceptance.
Emilia Pérez tells the story of a Mexican cartel leader who undergoes gender-affirming surgery to start anew, with Saldaña portraying the lawyer who aids in this transformation. The film has been lauded for its sensitive portrayal of transgender experiences and has sparked meaningful conversations about identity and acceptance.
Saldaña’s dedication highlights the personal connection she feels to the film’s themes, aiming to shed light on transgender narratives and foster empathy through storytelling.
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