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EL PAÍS
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From Selena Gomez to Keanu Reeves: Nine performances universally panned by the public

EL PAÍS reviews the roles that have caused the big headaches for major Hollywood stars, be it criticism for a fake accent or for failing to learn their lines

The French musical Emilia Perez, the most controversial film of the season, features one of the most talked-about performances — though not always for the right reasons. Selena Gomez, who shared an acting award at Cannes with fellow actresses Karla Sofia Gascon, Zoe Saldaña, and Adriana Paz, has become the focal point of criticism for her alleged subpar performance. Despite the mounting disapproval, often from viewers who admit to watching only parts of the film, critics have praised her work. She earned a nomination for Best Supporting Actress at the Golden Globes (which was ultimately awarded to her co-star Zoe Saldaña) and has now been nominated for a BAFTA, positioning her for a potential Oscar nomination. Although without much fanfare, Selena Gomez’s film career has been consistently successful. She gained prominence with 'Wizards of Waverly Place,' charmed audiences in Woody Allen’s 'A Rainy Day in New York,' showcased her range with director Harmony Korine in the daring 'Spring Breakers,' and made a successful return to television as part of the amateur detective trio in the delightful 'Only Murders in the Building.' Yet, none of these accomplishments seem to ease the criticism aimed at her portrayal of Jessi in 'Emilia Perez,' the wife of narco Manitas del Monte. Gomez has been receiving an unusual amount of backlash on social media, though many argue her seemingly dazed performance fits the helplessness of her character. Her imperfect Spanish is also defended, as she plays an American living in Mexico rather than a native. Despite these justifications, the memes and criticism continue, especially on social media. (Pictured: Selena Gomez, Zoe Saldaña, Karla Sofia Gascon, and Adriana Paz at Cannes last May).