Selena

As conventional mainstream filmed entertainment, then, Selena may not succeed completely. But as a ritual of celebration and closure it will provide its audience with an opportunity for some cathartic memories, laughs and tears.

While Olmos is the soul of the film, Jennifer Lopez as Selena is its playful heart. Lip-synching to popular recordings by the singing sensation and bopping to her irrepressible beat, she personifies girlish high hopes.

Director Gregory Nava might have done us all a favor by tightening up the script. Still, fans of the music, which mixes traditional Mexican styles with rock music, should enjoy the movie for its many songs and Lopez's convincing portrayal.

The result feels like a work produced for the Family Channel, to be followed by a panel discussion about family values and a sales pitch for the new Selena doll.

In a performance captivating enough to lend validity to some of the more heavy-handed "message" dialogue, Lopez emerges as a talent to watch.

Selena is well-made, hummable, too long yet quite watchable. At its center is a plaster saint.

Take away that ending, and you haven't got a movie. Fortunately, Selena also has actress Jennifer Lopez, who is good enough to hold your attention when the movie is not.

[Jennifer Lopez] has a star-making role here and more than fulfills it. The actress is so vital and commanding that she makes one spookily aware of the loss of the real Selena.

As Selena, Lopez glows with eagerness and joy. She does resemble the person she portrays, but she amplifies the characterization with impeccable body language.

Because the movie is a giant fan letter, it spends much too much time on such warm family interactions and not enough on matters that would strengthen the plot and educate people who aren't that familiar with her or her music.