Today’s Movie Clip O’ the Day comes from Selena because it IS exhausting, especially on days like today (Cinco de Mayo). Also, because I remember the precise moment I first saw this scene. I’d never felt more represented in a movie in my entire life. I got emotional quick and then immediately embarrassed. I didn’t want anyone in the theater to know I was about to spill a couple of tears during a scene which was clearly meant to be lighthearted. But, I’d finally seen my experience reflected back at me on the silver screen and that doesn’t happen often for Mexican chicks. For a movie nerd like me, this was huge. I’ll never forget it.
Selena (1997)
The true story of Selena, a Texas-born Tejano singer who rose from cult status to performing at the Astrodome, as well as having chart topping albums on the Latin music charts.
PS - By now I’m sure you’re well aware that Cinco de Mayo is not Mexico’s Independence day. What you may not know is that the way we celebrate this holiday in the US has a lot to do with the American Civil War. So don’t let anyone tell you it’s not a real holiday. It is, at least for some of us.
Nothing beats the real Selena.
“Cinco de Mayo is part of the Latino experience of the American Civil War. It’s not about the Mexican experience.”
David E Hayes-Bautista, Director of the Center for the Study of Latino Health and Culture at the School of Medicine at UCLA.