Selena Gomez has always been a chameleon in the entertainment industry, adapting to new challenges and transforming herself for diverse roles. Recently, she took on one of her most daunting tasks yet—speaking Spanish in her latest film, ‘Emilia Perez.’ Gomez, who has previously released an album entirely in Spanish, discussed the nuances of performing in a language that is not her first, and the thrill of embracing a radically different look for her character.
The Director’s Cross-Linguistic Approach
In ‘Emilia Perez,’ Gomez explores new linguistic territory, which she admitted was a blend of intimidation and pride. “I was extremely proud to speak Spanish,” Gomez shared. Her venture into a Spanish-speaking role wasn’t without nerves. Despite her experience with the language in music, the film posed a different challenge. “I’m more comfortable singing in Spanish, so doing an entire film was a little intimidating,” she confessed. This role marks a significant step in her career, as she embraces more complex and culturally rich characters.
A Transformative Physical Role
The choice of Jacques Audiard, a director famed for his work in multiple languages, added an intriguing layer to the production. Audiard, who does not speak Spanish, directed ‘Emilia Perez’ with a focus on the melodic flow of the language. Gomez admired his approach: “It might seem kind of crazy to think, How is he doing a Spanish film? But most of Jacques’s work is in other languages. I love how he appreciates language. Even though he doesn’t understand it, he really listens to the melody of how people speak,” she explained. This method underscores a universal aspect of filmmaking — the ability to transcend language barriers through emotional and narrative delivery.
Not only did Gomez challenge herself linguistically, but she also underwent a significant physical transformation for the role. Opting for a blonde look, she found the experience to be both lengthy and fulfilling. “I loved the blonde—I actually really like blonde on myself. A lot of people don’t,” Gomez remarked. The transformation involved an intricate process to ensure authenticity, “The wig was incredible. It took about 80 hours to do it so that it would match my hairline and for everything to be exact.” Her dedication to physically embodying the character complements her linguistic efforts, showcasing her commitment to her craft.