Selena Gomez expressed immense relief that the spotlight had turned to her latest role in the new Mexican cartel musical “Emilia Perez,” rather than her personal life, according to remarks she made to Reuters on Sunday. “It’s a relief. I’d rather somebody say I did a terrible job than talk about my personal life. So, I feel very proud,” said Gomez at the Cannes Film Festival, a day after her film premiered to a nine-minute standing ovation.
The former Disney star emphasized that she was only a small part of the grand narrative that is “Emilia Perez.” The film, which also stars Zoe Saldana and Karla Sofia Gascon, has been helmed by the celebrated director Jacques Audiard. It tells the story of a Mexican drug lord who transitions from male to female and eventually dedicates himself to finding the bodies of missing persons through a nonprofit organization. With its unique premise, the film is vying for the prestigious Palme d’Or at the festival.
Gomez, who is also known for her role alongside Steve Martin and Martin Short in the Hulu streaming series “Only Murders in the Building,” holds the title of the most-followed woman on Instagram, boasting an impressive follower count of 428 million. This extensive fan base places her under intense public scrutiny, often leading to headlines that delve into her personal relationships and her mental and physical health.
In addition, Selena Gomez made waves at Cannes not only for her acting but also for her elegant fashion sense. She graced the red carpet in a sophisticated Saint Laurent gown, captivating the audience and fashion critics alike. Gomez’s choice of attire further solidified her status as a style icon and demonstrated her capability to balance both her professional and personal image seamlessly.
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The pressures of living life under the microscope have not been new challenges for Gomez. She has been candid about her struggles with lupus and bipolar disorder. To manage the stress and create a healthier online environment, she recently decided to limit the comments on her social media posts to only include friends.
. This effort to draw boundaries is part of her broader strategy to preserve her mental well-being.
Gomez spoke about setting these boundaries during an appearance on NBC’s “Today” show earlier this month. She explained how her decision reflects a conscious effort to create a safer and more positive space for herself on social media, further underlining her commitment to managing her well-being amidst public scrutiny.
The story of “Emilia Perez” itself is compelling, diving deep into themes of identity, redemption, and social justice. Jacques Audiard, the director, is known for his knack for telling intricate, character-driven stories. His filmography includes critically acclaimed works like “Dheepan” and “A Prophet,” both of which have previously won awards at Cannes. With “Emilia Perez,” Audiard is once again showcasing his ability to navigate complex narratives that challenge societal norms and prompt profound discussions.
Zoe Saldana and Karla Sofia Gascon also bring powerful performances to the film, contributing to its profound impact. Saldana’s involvement highlights the continued trend of marquee actors participating in projects that tackle socially relevant issues, further elevating the film’s visibility and potential influence.
For Selena Gomez, this project signifies more than just another acting gig. It represents a shift towards meaningful and impactful cinematic roles, allowing her to showcase her wide-ranging talents. By taking on such a significant project, Gomez reiterates her willingness to step out of her comfort zone and tackle challenging roles that provide both professional fulfillment and an opportunity to spark important conversations.
Her relief and pride in the positive reception of “Emilia Perez” reflect not just a personal victory but also a professional milestone. Gomez’s career continues to evolve, presenting her as a versatile artist capable of navigating various creative landscapes. As she continues to manage the dual pressures of her professional commitments and public persona, her approach to balancing these aspects of her life will likely serve as an inspiration to many.
With the film in contention for the Palme d’Or, the outcome remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: Selena Gomez has successfully redirected the narrative, focusing the spotlight on her professional achievements rather than her personal life, a feat she and her fans can indeed be proud of.
