It’s hard to believe that “Spring Breakers,” a bold crime comedy, has been around for over ten years. The film featured notable actresses like Selena Gomez, Ashley Benson, Vanessa Hudgens, and Rachel Korine who played college friends embarking on a chaotic spring break trip in Florida. With money tight, the group resorts to robbing a fast-food joint and end up in jail. They are subsequently bailed out by a drug dealer named Alien, played by James Franco, who becomes their unlikely mentor.
Since its release in 2013, “Spring Breakers” has garnered a cult following and marked a significant moment in the careers of Gomez and Hudgens, who both transitioned from Disney fame to more mature roles. The cast has often reflected on their experiences making this thought-provoking film.
In a recent interview, Gomez shared her thoughts about the movie, explaining that after her time on “Wizards of Waverly Place,” she was eager to take on more interesting and edgy projects. She emphasized her desire to work with unique filmmakers, recalling her engaging audition process with director Harmony Korine.
Gomez also had a memorable moment with Hudgens during filming, reminiscing about their Disney backgrounds and how they approached the film’s R rating aimed at separating themselves from their youthful images. “I thought I was so mature back then,” she laughed, recalling her naive belief that young fans wouldn’t see the film because of its rating.
Despite the film’s mixed legacy over the years, Gomez expressed pride in being part of such a distinctive project. Ashley Benson, who faced her own challenges in the entertainment industry as part of the cast of “Pretty Little Liars,” also found the film to be liberating. She pushed for roles that would help her break out of the typecast of the popular blonde girl and was thrilled when she got the part in “Spring Breakers.”
Benson noted how the cast enjoyed their time together while promoting the film in Europe, recalling the fun they had during private flights, singing along to Britney Spears, and bonding as they traveled.
Overall, “Spring Breakers” remains a significant piece of cinematic history, reflecting a shift for its young stars from classic teen roles to a deeper exploration of themes surrounding youth, rebellion, and the pursuit of identity.