In her pursuit of a challenging role, Selena Gomez exhibited exceptional dedication to landing the part in "Emilia Pérez," Jacques Audiard's unique blend of genres in a Mexican cartel telenovela musical.
Gomez plays the character of Jessi, a woman married to a cartel leader who goes on a transformative journey from a criminal lifestyle to embracing independence as a single mother residing in the Swiss Alps.
When discussing the project, Gomez went into the rigorous nature of her audition experience and described how deeply she embraced the role.
"I acted insane in the audition, surrendered, and completely gave myself," Gomez shared during an interview at the Cannes Film Festival, where "Emilia Pérez" premiered, per THR.
In an unconventional audition setting, the former Disney Channel star showed off her talent through a virtual performance on Zoom, choosing a musical number from the film to enchant director Audiard.
Despite Audiard's initial lack of knowledge about her international stardom in music and acting, Gomez's dedication and fearless presentation ultimately won her the role.
Gomez admitted that the musical style of her signature song, "Mi Camino," posed a challenge, saying, "The style of music wasn't something I was used to performing."
However, the experience pushed her boundaries as a performer. "I ended up hitting the highest note that I've ever done."
The song captures the essence of her inner battles with mental well-being and serves as a defining scene in the movie.
After a prolonged period of anticipation, Gomez finally got the call confirming her casting, a moment she had been eagerly awaiting.
She recently shared her emotional reaction in an Instagram video, where she was seen celebrating the casting news in her pajamas, exclaiming, "I can't believe I got the movie! ... This is going to be so cool!"
For the "Come and Get Me" singer, the opportunity to work with Audiard was important, explaining, "Jacques, who really didn't know anything about me, took a chance and believed in me simply based on what I was able to do, and that was really special for me."
Gomez's performance alongside co-stars Karla Sofía Gascón, Zoe Saldaña, and Adriana Paz earned the ensemble a shared Best Actress award at the Cannes Film Festival.
Gomez also credited her co-stars, particularly Gascón, for cultivating a strong bond on set. "We became a big family," Gascón noted, reflecting on the collaborative environment.
