Selena Gomez faces critique over Spanish role in oscar buzz film
Selena Gomez has responded to criticism of her performance in the latest film "Emilia Pérez," which is considered a strong Oscar contender. Her Spanish has been described as "indefensible."
Mexican actor Eugenio Derbez, known for the comedy "Latin Lover" among others, was a guest on the podcast "Hablando de Cine." During the podcast, he discussed Selena Gomez's role 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" may already have noticed the limited range of expression that Gomez employs, both in her voice and facial expressions. Meanwhile, Gomez herself commented on a TikTok post featuring Derbez's remarks:
"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 Derbez's comments made headlines and Gomez's fans went on the offensive, 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
While viewers have one perspective, the industry has another. Gomez has just been nominated for Golden Globes for a supporting role in Emilia Perez and a leading role in Only Murders in the Building.
