Selena Gomez faces critique, earns Golden Globe nod
Selena Gomez responded to criticism of her skills in the latest film, "Emilia Pérez," which is said to be a strong contender for the Oscars. Her Spanish was described as "indefensible."
Mexican actor Eugenio Derbez, known from the comedy "Latin Lover," was a guest on the podcast "Hablando de Cine." There, he spoke about Selena Gomez in her latest film project.
"It is indefensible. I watched 'Emilia Pérez' with other people, and each time she appeared on screen, we looked at each other, saying, 'Wow, what is this?'" he said. However, he did offer some warm words for the actress and singer: "Spanish is neither her primary nor secondary language nor fifth. And that’s why I feel she doesn’t know what she is saying, and if she doesn’t know what she’s saying, she can’t give her acting any nuance. … And that is why her performance is not only unconvincing but uncomfortable."
Viewers of the comedy series "Only Murders in the Building" have already noticed the limited means of expression, both in voice and facial expressions, that Gomez uses. Meanwhile, Gomez commented on a TikTok post featuring Derbez's statement:
"I understand where you are coming from," she began. "I'm sorry I did the best I could with the time I was given. Doesn’t take away from how much work and heart I put into this movie."
As soon as the actor's words became widely known and Gomez's fanbase went on the attack, he retracted his opinion.
He wrote on TikTok: "[My comments] are indefensible and go against everything I stand for. As Latinos, we should always support one another. There’s no excuse. I was wrong, and I deeply admire your career and your kind heart. Emilia Pérez’ deserves to be celebrated, not diminished by my thoughtless remarks. I’m walking away from this with an important lesson learned. While I understand if you cannot accept my apology, please know it comes from the heart."
The industry praises Selena Gomez
Despite the viewers' opinions, the industry has its own view. Gomez has just been nominated for a Golden Globe for a supporting role in "Emilia Pérez" and a lead role in "Only Murders in the Building."
