Explaining The Curious Case Of 'emilia Perez,' The Woebegone Oscar Frontrunner

Jacques Audiard's "Emilia Perez" is an Oscar contender unlike any other. It's a musical, a trans parable, and a Mexico-set melodrama, all combined into one unique amalgamation by an international filmmaking team.

And just as singularly, it's a best picture front-runner that, it sometimes seems, no one likes.

On one hand, "Emilia Perez" is one of the most celebrated films of the year. It triumphed at the Golden Globes , earned 11 BAFTA nominations and landed 13 Academy Award nominations . Only three movies, ever, have scored more.

On the other hand, "Emilia Perez" has been lampooned for its tonal extremes, criticized for its depiction of Mexican culture and engulfed in controversy since it ascended to Oscar-favorite status.

A lot is hinging on how far "Emilia Perez" can go. If it manages to steer through the backlash and go home the big winner at the March 2 Oscars, it would hand Netflix its first best picture win. Its star, Karla Sofia Gascon , is the first openly trans actor nominated for best actress. A win would be even more historic.