Selena y Los Dinos (2025)

Selena y Los Dinos (2025)

2025 110 Minutes

Documentary

Selena Quintanilla's journey from performing at local events to becoming the "Queen of Tejano Music" with her family band Selena y Los Dinos, culminating in sold-out stadium tours, is chronicled th...

Overall Rating

6 / 10
Verdict: Good

User Review

  • ScreenZealots

    ScreenZealots

    6 / 10
    Director Isabel Castro’s documentary “Selena y Los Dinos“ offers a comprehensive and heartfelt tribute to the legendary singer Selena Quintanilla, known as the “Queen of Tejano Music.” Rather than focusing on her tragic murder, Castro instead celebrates Selena’s remarkable life, career, and family legacy, offering viewers an inspiring glimpse into her journey from performing at modest gatherings to selling out massive stadiums.

    Castro provides an intimate look at Selena’s life through never-before-seen home footage and candid interviews with her family, painting a warm, personal portrait of the young woman as both a magnetic performer and a devoted sister and daughter. The film balances nostalgia with thoughtful storytelling, which makes you feel as though you are sitting with the Quintanilla family and reliving Selena’s rise to stardom.

    I didn’t know that much about the subject and her music until I watched this film, and I was amazing by the sheer extent of Selena’s work ethic and creative genius. It’s surprising to learn that she didn’t grow up speaking Spanish, yet she took the time to become fluent (which is a testament to her dedication to connecting authentically with her biggest fans). She also took a leading role as the designer of her iconic performance costumes and was responsible for contributing some of the most famous hooks in her pop hits. She was clearly an artist with a vision and passion.

    Castro integrates Selena’s most beloved songs throughout the documentary, seamlessly weaving the music into the narrative. Fans will absolutely adore this element, and those new to her albums will find a lot to admire.

    Of course, the 1995 tragedy when Selena was gunned down by her fan club manager is mentioned, and it’s so sad that her life was cut short at the age of 23. But this is more of a celebration of her life and family rather than a sad true crime story.

    “Selena y Los Dinos” takes a tender approach in honoring Selena’s legacy, offering fans both new and old a reason to celebrate her life and artistry. Whether you’re a longtime devotee or learning about Selena for the first time, this documentary will leave you appreciating a star who had so much more to give to the music world.

    By: Louisa Moore / SCREEN ZEALOTS