Netflix’s Queen of Coal Sparks Debate Ahead of Release

Lux Pascal, sibling of Pedro Pascal, steps into the shoes of Carlita Antonella Rodríguez in the upcoming drama Queen of Coal. This Spanish-Argentine production, previously shown in cinemas across both countries, is set to reach a worldwide audience via Netflix from 19 December. Directed by Agustina Macri, the story centres on Carlita, a trans woman determined to work in the coal mines of Patagonia—a profession traditionally reserved for men. The real Carlita became the first trans miner in the region, challenging entrenched superstitions that women in the mines would bring misfortune.

Even before its global release, the film has provoked a strong reaction online. Some viewers have criticised both Lux Pascal and Netflix for what they see as the platform’s promotion of LGBTQ+ narratives. Among the more pointed remarks:

This is an actual show coming out on Netflix soon: "Queen of Coal." "A trans woman dreams of working the coal mines — but in a town steeped in superstition and patriarchy, Carlita must fight to earn her place underground."

NO THANK YOU!! I cancelled Netflix years ago anyway.

Not believable. Who, the fuck, "dreams of working in the coal mines"? I write books about magic and super soldier and wouldn't use a premise that unlikely.

I totally can't wait to never watch this.

Queen of Coal. Another banger from Netflix!!! Who green lights this stuff?

Despite the backlash, the film has also received praise from LGBTQ+ supporters. One social media user commented, “Representation matters. Carlita’s story is a reminder that trans people belong everywhere – including spaces society has long tried to exclude them from.” The film premiered in Spain on 12 June 2025, followed by an Argentine release on 2 October 2025.

Lux Pascal: From Stage to Screen

Seventeen years younger than her well-known brother, Lux Pascal was born Lucas Balmaceda in California and moved to Chile at the age of three. She publicly came out as a trans woman in 2021, adopting the name Lux Balmaceda Pascal. After graduating from Juilliard in 2023, she pursued a career in theatre, later moving into Spanish-language television and film. Her early work included a role in the series Los 80, followed by appearances in soaps such as Juana Brava and a film debut in 2016. Notably, she played Elijah alongside Pedro Pascal in Narcos.

Lux has spoken candidly about her transition, expressing gratitude for the support she received from her family, particularly her brother. Pedro Pascal has publicly celebrated his sister’s journey, once sharing, “Mi hermana, mi corazón, nuestra Lux,” or “My sister, my heart, our Lux.”

Comparisons with Emilia Pérez

The film Emilia Pérez, starring Karla Sofía Gascón as a cartel boss seeking gender-affirming surgery, faced similar scrutiny. Despite winning several awards and being considered for the Oscars, the film drew criticism for its portrayal of a Mexican transition story. The controversy intensified after old, offensive tweets by Gascón resurfaced, containing remarks on topics such as Muslims, the Oscars, the Holocaust, and George Floyd.

Further criticism was levelled at Emilia Pérez for its lack of cultural authenticity. Cinematographer Rodrigo Prieto questioned the absence of Mexican consultants, noting,

Why not hire a Mexican production designer, costume designer, or at least some consultants?… It was just the details for me. You would never have a jail sign that read ‘Cárcel’ it would be ‘Penitenciaria’. It’s just the details, and that shows me that nobody that knew was involved.

Director Jacques Audiard admitted that the film did not delve deeply into Mexican culture. There is hope among audiences that Queen of Coal will avoid similar pitfalls.

Queen of Coal will be available to stream on Netflix from 19 December 2025.