Selena Gomez Moved to Tears by 9-Minute Applause at Cannes Film Festival for 'Emilia Perez' Film

Selena Gomez Cries During 9 Minute Standing Ovation at Cannes Film Festival for Her Emilia Perez Movie

Selena Gomez Dominique Charriau/WireImage

Selena Gomez was visibly moved during the Cannes Film Festival on May 18 when her latest movie, Emilia Pérez, received a standing ovation that lasted for nine minutes. The 31-year-old actress was seen wiping away tears as the audience at France's Grand Lumiére Theatre at the Palais showed their appreciation with the longest round of applause of the year, according to Variety.

Gomez was not the only one emotional during the screening. Zoe Saldaña and Karla Sofía Gascón were also seen shedding tears in response to the positive reaction. Gomez was seen comforting Gascón, who was particularly overwhelmed with emotion. The audience continued to cheer for an additional minute even after director Jacques Audiard took the microphone to speak a few words in French.

Gomez stars as Jessi, a drug lord's wife and mother of two in the musical crime drama. She sings several songs for the Emilia Pérez soundtrack and speaks Spanish in the film. However, it is Gascón who shines as the gangster seeking legal assistance for gender confirmation surgery.

According to the official synopsis from Cannes, Rita is a highly skilled lawyer at a prestigious firm that prioritizes helping criminals avoid consequences over seeking justice. Her life takes an unexpected turn when cartel leader Manitas hires her to assist with his plans to leave his criminal past behind and finally transition into the woman he has always wanted to be.

Selena Gomez Cries During 9 Minute Standing Ovation at Cannes Film Festival for Her Emilia Perez Movie

Selena Gomez, Édgar Ramírez, Jacques Audiard and Zoe Saldana Max Cisotti/Dave Benett/Getty Images

Before capturing the attention of movie fans with her latest film, Gomez was already turning heads with her stylish red carpet appearances in France.

For the Emilia Pérez red carpet event on Saturday, Gomez stunned in a black Saint Laurent gown featuring a chic white off-the-shoulder neckline. She completed her look with black platform Santoni heels and accessorized with exquisite Bulgari jewelry, including a dazzling diamond choker, multiple rings, and earrings.

Gomez was seen the day before, looking stylish yet relaxed in a white knitted minidress by Self-Portrait paired with black and white Roger Vivier pumps. Later that evening, she wore a custom navy Oscar de la Renta gown with black details on the neckline. Her mid-calf hemline showcased her black Santoni pumps.

Excited about upcoming acting projects, Gomez expressed her enthusiasm for taking on challenging roles. She mentioned, "I enjoy pursuing roles that require effort, not just those that are easily given to me. I aim for the roles that truly inspire me."

Gomez's Cannes appearance follows her announcement in March that she is currently prioritizing acting over her music career.

In an interview with Rolling Stone, Gomez expressed her love for film and TV, stating that she feels there are still many things she wants to accomplish in that area. While she did not completely rule out a return to music, she emphasized her desire to further explore the world of acting.

The star of Only Murders in the Building shared, "I enjoy pursuing roles that I have to work hard for, rather than ones that are easily given to me. I'm drawn to projects that truly inspire me."

In addition to her role in Only Murders in the Building, Gomez will also be starring in a new Linda Ronstadt biopic and working on producing the upcoming reboot of Wizards of Waverly Place.

Editor's P/S:

Selena Gomez's latest film, "Emilia Pérez," has garnered critical acclaim and a standing ovation at the Cannes Film Festival. The actress's moving performance and the film's exploration of gender identity and social justice have resonated with audiences, highlighting Gomez's versatility and commitment to meaningful storytelling. While she previously focused on her music career, Gomez's recent statement prioritizing acting underscores her passion for the craft and her desire to tackle challenging roles that inspire her.

The film itself delves into complex themes of identity, redemption, and the legal system. Gomez's character, Jessi, provides a nuanced portrayal of a woman navigating the complexities of her husband's criminal past and her own personal struggles. Karla Sofía Gascón's performance as the transgender gangster seeking legal assistance for gender confirmation surgery is particularly poignant, adding depth and emotional resonance to the film's exploration of gender identity and societal acceptance. Overall, "Emilia Pérez" showcases Selena Gomez's growth as an actress and her ability to connect with audiences through emotionally charged and thought-provoking roles.