Selena Gomez Takes the Spotlight on Social Media at Cannes
When the legendary Jim Jarmusch’s zombie‑filled flick, The Dead Don’t Die, rolled out at the opening of the Cannes Film Festival, Selena Gomez made her own statement about the modern digital age. The 26‑year‑old pop star‑turned‑actress addressed a media conference, cautioning her 150 million Instagram fans that the “platforms that made her famous” can be dangerous if used improperly.
Making the “Great” a Little Less Great
Gomez said she actively tries to set a positive example on social media, but she pointed out a worrying trend: “Our generation feels the strain of what these sites are doing.” Her warning arrived just days after a Malaysian teenager tragically took her life after launching an Instagram poll about life and death. The youth, who hailed from Kuching, it’s a reminder of how social media can become a breeding ground for both good and very bad.
Reality Check: Fake News and Bullying
“It’s scary to see how vulnerable young people are,” Gomez continued. She stressed how fake news spreads like wildfire, then mentioned that teenagers who spend an hour a day on social media are more likely to feel low‑mood and stressed than those who spend less time online.
Key Takeaway: “I don’t let people get lost in meaningless posts—I choose what I share.” She asked fellow actors like Bill Murray, Chloe Sevigny, and Tilda Swinton what the industry can do to strip away “toxic” elements online, and she delivered a sobering reality: “It’s almost impossible to guarantee safety. People get exposed instantly, and there’s no full block or filter.”
Balancing the Benefits of the Digital Age
Despite the negativity, Gomez also talked about using her influence as a tool for good. “Being grateful for this platform means I have a voice that can be used responsibly, because it’s easier to get lost if you’re not careful.” She advocated for cutting back on screen time, “less is more” especially when it comes to chasing notifications.
Jarmusch’s Zombie Metaphor
The film Jarmusch directed is a satire of a small town in a “Trump‑era America” overrun by zombies craving Wi‑Fi, Xanax and wine. The director uses this monstrous vision to critique “commodity fetishism” and climate denial, pointing out the way we’ll feed the planet’s decline if we’re not careful.
He admitted the sadness about the pace of environmental change but also mentioned hope fueled by young climate activists. “People are pulling the right strings,” he said, offering a sliver of optimism through the film’s dark twist.
Star Quotes That Stick
- “I’m a better person when I’m working on a film.” – Bill Murray comments on his craft.
- “Watching the planet melt over time is terrifying—but I hope it doesn’t happen.” – Jarmusch reflects on the climate crisis.
- “I just try to be intentional about what I post.” – Selena Gomez on mindful social media use.
From the set, the message is clear: while Instagram can be a powerful tool, the burden of holding truth and safety is heavy. Selena Gomez’s balanced approach offers a hopeful but realistic guide for anyone living in the digital age.
