The crowd applauds at the end of the screening of the film “Emilia Perez” at the 77th edition of the Cannes Film Festival. Photo credit: Antonin Thuillier

Emilia PerezA Spanish-language musical drama starring Zoe Saldana, Selena Gomez and Carla Sofia Gascón has buzzed Cannes with the festival’s biggest standing ovation yet. The film, directed by Cannes veteran Jacques Audiard, premiered on Saturday to thunderous applause that lasted more than 11 minutes, with the audience at the Palace des Festivals clearly impressed by the performances and the story.

The film’s stars were in attendance at the premiere, including Saldana, Gomez and Gascón as well as Edgar Ramírez. The cast’s emotional reaction, including tears from Saldana, Gascón, and Gomez, highlighted the film’s impact and the warm reception it received. Audiard, known for his previous works such as rust and Bone And Paris, 13th districtHe went on stage to thank the audience before the applause began to get even louder.

Emilia Pérez tells the story of Rita (Saldana), an incompetent lawyer who focuses more on defending criminals than on getting justice. The plot takes a dramatic turn when cartel leader Manitas (Gascon) asks for her help in giving up her life of crime and fulfilling her dream of becoming the woman she always wanted to be.

The premiere marks a significant moment for Gascón, a trans actor from Madrid who is making his debut on the Cannes stage alongside veteran Cannes participants Saldana and Gomez.

Emilia Perez Not only is it a contender for the Palme d’Or, but it’s also in the running for the Queer Palm, which celebrates films with queer themes.

The screenplay was written by Audiard with frequent collaborators Thomas Bideigny and Léa Macius. The film is set for French release on August 28 by Pathé, with The Veterans handling international sales.