Jacques Audiard, a renowned and accomplished director, stands as a true maestro in the realm of filmmaking. With an illustrious career that has seen him collaborate with numerous A-list talents, it comes as no surprise that he chose to work with the mesmerizing Selena Gomez in his upcoming masterpiece, Emilia Perez. However, what may astonish many is Audiard’s admission of being “unaware” of Gomez’s immense fame prior to casting her in this project.
Recently, at the prestigious Cannes Film Festival in 2024, Audiard’s Emilia Perez received a resounding 11-minute standing ovation, a testament to the brilliance that awaits audiences. This musical crime comedy film boasts an ensemble cast of extraordinary talents, including the likes of Zoe Saldana, Karla Sofía Gascón, Édgar Ramírez, and of course, the captivating Selena Gomez.
In a candid interview with Collider, the 72-year-old visionary director shed light on his decision to helm Emilia Perez and shared his thoughts on casting Gomez. When asked about his awareness of her colossal fan base in the United States and his conscious choice to cast her, Audiard humbly confessed, “I was completely unaware of it.” He further elaborated, revealing his detachment from the social media platforms that have become the lifeblood of the Instagram and TikTok generation. “I have no access to all of that,” he admitted.
However, Audiard’s lack of familiarity with Gomez’s fame did not hinder his appreciation for her talent. Prior to casting her in Emilia Perez, he had the pleasure of witnessing her remarkable performances in Woody Allen’s romantic comedy, A Rainy Day in New York (2019), and Harmony Korine’s comedy crime film, Spring Breakers. These encounters left an indelible impression on Audiard, as he was captivated by Gomez’s acting prowess. It was this admiration that ultimately led him to extend the offer for her to grace the screen in his cinematic masterpiece.
Jacques Audiard’s revelation of being “unaware” of Selena Gomez’s fame before casting her in Emilia Perez only adds to the intrigue surrounding this highly anticipated film. With his unparalleled directorial skills and Gomez’s undeniable talent, audiences can expect nothing short of a cinematic marvel that will leave them spellbound. Audiard’s focus on talent and artistic merit is evident in his previous works, such as “A Prophet” and “Rust and Bone,” where he has consistently chosen actors based on their ability to bring depth and authenticity to their characters rather than their celebrity status. This approach allows him to create films that are rich in emotional depth and resonate with audiences on a profound level.
By casting Selena Gomez in “Emilia Perez,” Audiard demonstrates his commitment to pushing boundaries and challenging audience expectations. Gomez, known primarily for her music career and her role in the popular television series “Wizards of Waverly Place,” may not have been an obvious choice for a dramatic film. However, Audiard’s ability to recognize her talent and potential as an actress speaks to his keen eye for raw talent and his willingness to take risks in order to create compelling and memorable characters.
Audiard’s detachment from social media platforms further emphasizes his dedication to his craft. In a world where many filmmakers and artists rely heavily on social media for promotion and engagement with their audience, Audiard’s decision to distance himself from these distractions allows him to maintain a clear focus on his work. This commitment to the creative process is reflected in the quality and depth of his films, as he is able to fully immerse himself in the storytelling and bring his vision to life without the interference of external influences.
Overall, Audiard’s revelation about being “unaware” of Selena Gomez’s fame adds an intriguing layer to the anticipation surrounding “Emilia Perez.” It showcases his ability to see beyond the surface and recognize talent, regardless of its level of fame. This further solidifies his reputation as a true maestro in the realm of filmmaking, as he continues to create films that are driven by artistic merit and a commitment to storytelling.
