One of the standout films from the 2025 Sundance Film Festival is Isabel Castro’s “Selena y Los Dinos,” a compelling musical tribute to Selena Quintanilla, dubbed “The Queen of Tejano Music.” This documentary offers an affectionate portrayal of Selena and her band, Los Dinos, highlighting how they forged a distinctive sound by blending cumbia with Latin pop.
The movie quickly gained significant attention, prompting Sundance and the filmmakers to remove it from the online screening platform following the unauthorized sharing of clips by eager fans. Castro, who previously directed “Mija,” presents a heartfelt homage to what Selena accomplished during her tragically short life, which was cut short by her murder at age 23.
“Selena y Los Dinos” shines a light on the familial dynamics that shaped the band, revealing that Selena’s father was her manager, her brother served as her producer, and her sister played the drums. Notably, the film goes beyond recounting the circumstances of Selena’s death and instead focuses on celebrating her life and legacy.
Through the lens of her career, the documentary dives into the cultural complexities faced by the Quintanilla family. Despite their Tejano heritage, they initially did not speak Spanish, which posed challenges as Selena sought to reach a broader audience. The film illustrates her remarkable journey, including moments when she learned Spanish to connect with diverse crowds, notably during concerts in Mexico.
As IndieWire’s Esther Zuckerman noted in her review, viewers witness Selena’s evolution as she adapts to the demands of her music career, showcasing her keen interest in fashion design that led to her iconic style marked by sparkly outfits and high-waisted pants.
Approaching the film’s later sections, the narrative gracefully sidesteps the grim details of Selena’s death. The reference to Yolanda Saldívar, the woman who took Selena’s life, is limited to a single passing mention, a choice that underscores the intention to empower Selena’s story rather than dwell on her tragic end.
While there is an unmistakable sense of loss for the groundbreaking artist who had so much more to give, the film powerfully affirms her humanity and the enduring legacy she left behind. The sorrow etched on the faces of her family members and bandmates serves as a poignant reminder of the impact Selena had on those around her.
“Selena y Los Dinos” will be available for streaming on Netflix starting Monday, November 17, promising to bring her story to a wider audience. The film’s trailer is sure to excite fans both old and new, as it celebrates the life of a legend who continues to inspire.