‘Selena: The Series’, Worth the Watch?

Photo+by+Natalie+Rojas

Photo by Natalie Rojas

Vanessa Orozco, Reporter

“Selena: The Series” is a two-part series based on the life of the well-known Tejano singer Selena Quintanilla-Perez. The sequence, which was directed by Gregory Nava and produced by Companario Entertainment, was first released on Netflix Dec. 4, 2020.

The series comes after the beloved 1997 film, “Selena” which was also directed by Nava and produced by Selena’s father, Abraham Quintanilla, Jr. The star of the film, Jennifer Lopez, portrayed the late Tejano singer as a charismatic entertainer and person. Prior to the series’ release, many viewers felt the movie was a perfect way to honor the late singer.

The casting of Jennifer Lopez, also known as Jlo, was appreciated by the Latin community because of Lopez’s Latin roots and her immaculate impression of Quintanilla.

When watching the series, most viewers immediately began to draw comparisons between Lopez and the star of the series, Christian Serratos. Serratos was more than the leading lady, she also had a significant role in decisions made to capture Quintanilla’s personal life.

In the show, Selena uses her working ethics to overcome challenges in her lifetime, including eviction, poverty, overwhelming work schedules, and of course the adoring act of eloping with her now widower, Christopher Perez. She uses these past experiences to balance her perspective when dealing with new fame and wealth.

Her voice, humbleness, and modesty, both in real life and in the series, earned the adoration of millions. The show also covers some of Quintanilla’s greatest accomplishments like when she performed at one of the largest indoor arenas in the world, the Houston Astrodome, where she broke attendance records three years in a row.

Yet, the show left many viewers disappointed. The public criticized Serratos’ casting and the quality of the series due to low funding. Nevertheless, there were numerous spectators who genuinely enjoyed the effort put into the show.

Even though public opinion varied, I recommend watching the series. From her childhood complications, rising fame, and eventually her tragic passing, the show captures Selena Quintanilla’s ability to inspire. The 18-episode series is definitely worth binge-watching because it gives insight into a life that touched so many hearts.

“Selena: The Series” is filled with daring, busy, sympathetic, and tragic moments. Serratos’s character is such a fantastically talented superstar with great chemistry and love between her and her career -an unbreakable bond.

Every actor in the series had a significant role in Selena’s life, making them important to the series. Nevertheless, each actor immaculately captured the unique individual qualities of their characters. Even if it was usually through humor or affection, the cast did an incredible job impersonating and recreating memories. Serratos and her team each portray their character with such high coordination that it feels like you are quite literally, re-living Selena’s life with her.