On March 19, 2025, the excitement at AMC Lincoln Square 13 in New York City reached a fever pitch when Selena Gomez and her fiancé, Benny Blanco, made a surprise appearance during a special IMAX screening of the cult classic film "Spring Breakers." Fans were visibly thrilled, some cheering and others gasping in disbelief as the couple stepped into the spotlight, hands intertwined, ready to celebrate a beloved movie that marked a pivotal moment in Gomez's career.
The event was organized by A24 to mark a one-night-only re-release of "Spring Breakers," which originally debuted in 2012 and starred Gomez, Ashley Benson, Vanessa Hudgens, and Rachel Korine as a group of college friends who take a wild and reckless spring break trip to Florida. Known for its edgy content and unique storytelling, the film highlighted a shift in Gomez's career from her Disney roots to more mature themes.
As the movie's credits rolled, the audience erupted in applause, and Gomez seized the opportunity to engage with the fans. "Did you guys enjoy one of my favorite movies?" she asked, eliciting roars of approval. Gomez, now 32, took out her phone to snap a selfie with the audience, an intimate gesture that many fans took as a once-in-a-lifetime moment. "I told Harmony and the girls that I was here. I wanted to brighten the lights to send them a selfie because I love them," she added, referencing the film's director, Harmony Korine, and her co-stars.
During this special event, Blanco made the announcement that they would share an exclusive preview of their new song, "Bluest Flame," from their upcoming album, "I Said I Love You First." "The label is probably gonna shoot us, but thanks, guys," he jokingly remarked, drawing laughter from the audience.
In addition to the preview, each attendee received a USB drive containing the yet-to-be-released track, marking a rare opportunity for fans to experience new music ahead of its official release. The couple's energy was contagious as they encouraged the audience to enjoy the surprise. "Spring break forever, bitch!" Blanco shouted, a nod to the rebellious spirit of the film.
Reflecting on the impact of "Spring Breakers," Gomez has expressed her pride in the movie despite its polarizing reception. In a recent interview with Variety, she stated enthusiastically, "This movie means the world to me...It was one of the moments in my life that I felt like, ‘Oh, this is what art can feel like.’” She noted that the film represented a bold artistic step for her and echoed her readiness to take risks within her career.
The couple's appearance was more than just a promotional event; it marked a significant moment in their relationship and careers. Since their engagement in December 2024, Gomez and Blanco have emerged as a creative power couple, collaborating on new music while nurturing their personal bond. Dressed stylishly for the occasion—Gomez in a chic sheer chocolate top paired with denim and a luxurious $2,300 Saint Laurent bucket bag—they undoubtedly turned heads.
As the evening concluded and fans left the theater, many expressed their appreciation for the unique experience they had been part of. Reactions flew on social media, with fans sharing their delight at witnessing Gomez and Blanco in person. One user tweeted, "Selena Gomez teasing 'Bluest Flame' at the Spring Breakers re-release is the kind of full-circle moment I didn’t know I needed." Others echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the nostalgia of seeing Gomez transition from her Disney days to a more bold persona.
Looking ahead, Gomez and Blanco are set to release their album on March 21, 2025, just a couple of days after their surprise appearance. This project serves not only as a celebration of their journey together but also demonstrates their ability to blend personal and artistic expressions. With catchy new songs and memorable partnerships, expectations are high for what they will bring next.
For fans and onlookers alike, the surprise appearance at the IMAX screening of "Spring Breakers" was a thrilling event, symbolizing both nostalgia and excitement for the future. With their album imminent and creative energies flowing, Selena Gomez and Benny Blanco are undoubtedly artists to watch in the coming months.