The true Selena shines in new Netflix doc
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Selena y Los Dinos performing. Photo: Courtesy of Netflix
Selena fans will get an intimate look at the Tejano star beyond her iconic costumes, dance moves and powerhouse voice next Monday with the release of Netflix's "Selena y Los Dinos."
Why it matters: Directed by Isabel Castro, the film is packed with never-before-seen home videos shared by Selena's family.
Driving the news: "Selena y Los Dinos" premiered at the Sundance Film Festival in January, where it won the U.S. Documentary Special Jury Award for Archival Storytelling.
Zoom in: Across nearly two hours, Castro traces the Quintanilla family's journey — from their life before Selena, to her first performances at the family's restaurant in Lake Jackson, to her final concert at the Houston Astrodome. While her death is addressed, it's not the film's focus.
- "I was focused on Selena growing up," Castro tells Axios.
- Castro says the editing process — deciding which clips to include from the wealth of footage provided by the family — was the most challenging of her career. The project began in 2022 and wrapped only a few months ago.
Between the lines: Watching years of Selena's private moments — laughing with friends, unwinding after shows and falling in love — reminded Castro just how young she was.
- Selena's humor and wit also shine throughout, Castro says.
Zoom out: The film joins a growing list of projects celebrating Selena's legacy.
- Texas State University recently unveiled an exhibit of her personal mementos.
- The Grammy Museum in Los Angeles will debut its own Selena exhibition on Jan. 15.
The bottom line: "I hope that when people watch this film, they're reminded of the sheer joy and beauty of (Mexican American) culture," Castro says. "I think that's why this film is more important than ever."
What's next: Chifladas Cocktail Bar will host a screening of the documentary on Tuesday at 7pm. The film will play on a loop until 2am.