Selena Gomez and Ashley Benson Reflect on ‘Spring Breakers’
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Selena Gomez and Ashley Benson recently reminisced about their experience working on the film “Spring Breakers,” which has now turned 12 years old. The provocative crime comedy featured Gomez, Benson, Vanessa Hudgens, and Rachel Korine as a group of college friends who embark on a wild spring break trip to Florida. Running low on funds, the friends resort to robbing a restaurant, leading to their arrest and subsequent involvement with a charismatic drug dealer named Alien, played by James Franco. The 2013 film quickly gained a cult following and marked a significant departure for former Disney stars Gomez and Hudgens.
Reflecting on her time filming “Spring Breakers,” Gomez shared in an interview with The Hollywood Reporter in late 2024 that she was drawn to the project as a departure from her previous work on Disney’s “Wizards of Waverly Place.” She expressed her admiration for director Harmony Korine’s unique vision and storytelling approach, highlighting the refreshing challenge of the role. Despite her excitement for the project, Gomez acknowledged her youthful naivety at the time, especially in comparison to her co-star Hudgens, who also came from a Disney Channel background.
Ashley Benson, known for her role in “Pretty Little Liars,” also found the experience of working on “Spring Breakers” to be liberating and transformative for her career. She emphasised the script’s edginess and the opportunity to break away from her previous on-screen persona, embracing the chance to delve into a darker and more complex character. Benson’s enthusiasm for the project was evident as she shared her excitement at landing the role and working with director Harmony Korine.
Vanessa Hudgens, another member of the “Spring Breakers” cast, spoke fondly of the camaraderie and bonds that formed among the cast members during the film’s promotional tour in Europe. The ensemble, which also included Rachel Korine, enjoyed a close-knit dynamic both on and off-screen, fostering a sister-like relationship that extended beyond the film’s production. Hudgens highlighted the fun and memorable experiences they shared while promoting the film, creating lasting friendships in the process.
Despite the mixed reception and reactions to “Spring Breakers” over the years, Gomez expressed her pride in being part of such a unique and daring project. Similarly, Benson cherished the opportunity to explore a different side of her acting skills and break away from typecasting. The film’s unconventional narrative and visual style continue to resonate with audiences, showcasing a pivotal moment in the careers of its talented cast members who ventured into new creative territories.
As the anniversary of “Spring Breakers” approaches, fans can revisit the film’s audacious storyline and memorable performances on streaming platforms like Apple TV and Hulu. The enduring impact of the film serves as a testament to the versatility and talent of its stars, including Selena Gomez, Ashley Benson, Vanessa Hudgens, and Rachel Korine, who brought depth and complexity to their characters in this bold cinematic endeavour.