Selena Gomez, a multi-talented star and generational icon, was honored at the IndieWire Honors Winter 2024 ceremony with the prestigious Spotlight Award. Recognized for her remarkable performance in “Emilia Pérez”, a highly acclaimed film directed by Jacques Audiard, Selena has once again proven her ability to captivate both audiences and peers with her unique blend of talent and mystery.
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Director Jacques Audiard opened up about why he chose Selena for the role of Jessi in “Emilia Pérez,” sharing anecdotes about their first meeting and her profound impact on the film set.
From a Fateful Meeting to a Career-Defining Role
Jacques Audiard admitted in an interview with IndieWire that before meeting Selena, he was unaware of her fame. Not being on social media, Audiard had only seen her in a few films, including “Spring Breakers” and a Woody Allen production. However, it was a suggestion from the teenage daughter of a close friend that led him to consider Selena for the role of Jessi.
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“Gloria, my friend’s daughter, told me Selena was an icon. I asked her, ‘An icon? Did you just learn that word?’” Audiard recalled with humor. Intrigued, he arranged to meet Selena at a café in New York.
Selena arrived casually dressed but exuded charm and poise. “I saw in her a blend of strength and vulnerability, determination and doubt,” Audiard shared. Within 15 minutes, he knew she was the one for the role, although Selena later confessed she thought he had forgotten about her when producers called her months later to finalize the contract.
A Living, Beautiful Contradiction
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On set, Selena Gomez proved to be what Audiard described as “a living, beautiful contradiction.” “She is both strong and fragile, confident and uncertain, present and elusive,” he said.
What struck Audiard most was Selena’s dedication. Despite spending countless hours in the spotlight and achieving global stardom, Selena carried a sense of humility and doubt that made her performances deeply authentic. “I don’t understand how someone who works so hard and has achieved so much can still doubt themselves,” he remarked.
Selena Gomez’s Shining Moment
“Emilia Pérez” showcases Selena Gomez’s incredible range as an actress. Her portrayal of Jessi, a discontented wife in a story of transformation and rebirth, demanded subtlety and depth—qualities that Selena delivered flawlessly. From her tone and expressions to the way she conveyed her character’s emotions, Selena brought Jessi to life, making her an unforgettable part of the film.
Beyond the screen, Selena left a lasting impression on the crew. Audiard noted her relentless pursuit of perfection and refusal to settle for anything less, qualities that solidify her status as an icon in both music and film.
Selena Gomez’s recognition at the IndieWire Honors is not only a testament to her talent in “Emilia Pérez” but also a celebration of her growth and versatility in the entertainment industry. Jacques Audiard aptly described her as “a mysterious icon,” and Selena’s career is undoubtedly entering a new and luminous chapter.
