Jennifer Lopez takes on a multifaceted role in the cinematic adaptation of the beloved musical, “Kiss of the Spider Woman.” Determined to honor the legacy of actresses like Sonia Braga and Chita Rivera, Lopez immersed herself in her characters: the enigmatic Spider Woman, the glamorous Hollywood actress Aurora, and the star Ingrid Luna. She noted the distinct vocal and tonal qualities she brought to each persona, describing the Spider Woman’s songs as having a darker timbre, Aurora’s as lighter and more romantic, and Ingrid Luna’s as that of a powerful superstar.
Directed by the acclaimed Bill Condon, known for “Dreamgirls,” the 2025 film, distributed by Lionsgate, Roadside Attractions, and LD Entertainment, is set to captivate audiences. The story, originally a 1976 novel by Manuel Puig, was famously adapted into a 1985 film by Héctor Babenco and later a 1993 Broadway musical by Harold Prince.
The narrative centers on Valentín Arregui, portrayed by Diego Luna, a political prisoner who forms an unexpected bond with his cellmate, Luis Molina, played by Tonatiuh Elizarraraz. Molina, imprisoned for public indecency, enchants Valentin with tales from a Hollywood musical featuring Lopez’s character, Ingrid Luna.
Condon highlighted that while his 2025 rendition more explicitly explores the queer romance between Molina and Valentin, he was deeply influenced by the groundbreaking 1985 film. “That film was groundbreaking for its time, and as a young gay man watching that movie, it meant a lot to me,” Condon shared.
Tonatiuh, who professionally goes by his first name, sees the film as a powerful platform for celebrating the artistic contributions and resilience of historically oppressed communities. “It reminds us of the power that Latinos and that queer individuals have, the dignities behind our communities, and the resilience behind that,” he remarked. He also emphasized the film’s universal message of love, making it relatable to a broad audience.