31 March, 2025, 

Gregory Nava explains how his 1997 film 'Selena' became better for people

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In the thirty years since Selena Quintanilla-Pérez's passing, her story has been told through various mediums, but the 1997 biographical film “Selena” remains one of the most culturally significant.

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“Selena” is one of the rare cinematic portrayals of the pop icon that her family has endorsed, capturing both her legacy and her family's mixed Mexican American identity.  

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Shortly after Selena’s death, her family chose Oscar-nominated director Gregory Nava, known for films like “El Norte” and “Mi Familia,” to create the biopic.

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Nava directed the film in Texas with Warner Bros.’ support, basing the script on interviews with Selena’s family and close friends.  

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“Selena” grossed over $35 million, and Jennifer Lopez’s performance as the singer earned her a best actress nomination at the 55th Golden Globe Awards.

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Nava took on the project despite warnings from others, believing the film was essential for Latina representation on screen.  

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