Kiss of the Spider Woman wants you to believe that there’s magic in the musical.
Set in turbulent 1983 Argentina, Kiss of the Spider Woman begins in a prison as Molina (Tonatiuh) is arrested for public indecency with a male and thrown into a cell with Valentin (Diego Luna), a leftist activist and political prisoner. Both trapped behind bars with little hope of escape, Molina suggest that Valentin take solace in a beloved musical, Kiss of the Spider Woman, starring his favourite onscreen diva (Jennifer Lopez). When Valentin confesses that he hasn’t seen it, Valentin embarks on a dramatic retelling of the film to distract them from the difficulties that surround them. As the two grow closer, Molina carefully avoids telling his new friend his darkest secret: that he has been sent there to spy on Valentin and report his plans back to the warden.
Directed by Bill Condon, Kiss of the Spider Woman is a fascinating balance of styles. Part 1950’s cinema and part prison drama, the film is tasked with allowing its more artistic moments feel authentic in a world where hope is fleeting. Even so, while blurring the lines between classic cinema and more traditional dramatic pieces is a difficult line to walk, Condon still brings the necessary energy that the film requires. Sets are stunning, visuals pop with colour and, most importantly, the film’s MGM-era dance numbers are delightful to behold.
And, to be fair, it’s hard to deny the charismatic nature of Jennifer Lopez. While isn’t necessarily her best performance, her work here is undeniably mesmerizing. Playing the Hollywood starlet simply feels natural for her and she unleashes her inner playfulness, even in the film’s most challenging moments. She has the ability to channel the energy of some of cinema’s grandest performers and, in Spider Woman, she emulates glamour with every twist and turn on the dance floor.
However, while Lopez (and, arguably, Luna) provide the film’s box office star power, it’s Tonatiuh who shines in the spotlight. As Molina, Tonatiuh brings an authenticity and passion to the role that makes the character pop onscreen. In every interaction they have with their mega-star co-stars, Tonatiuh not only holds their own but arguably steals the scene. Whether they’re dancing with JLo or bonding with Luna, there is simply a joy in their performance that sparkles when given the opportunity.
And Spider Woman is a film that requires that sense of authenticity. Balancing its Technicolor feel with the darkness of a political prison, it’s that genuine spirit that holds the film together. This is a film that sits within the trauma of a politically charged era. It’s a time when the slightest inclination of one’s rebellion of the status quo will not only land you in prison to be tormented by its guards and warden. Every word spoken is being watched and every action has the potential to lead to greater danger.
Although one could also argue that the film’s stylized nature also keeps Spider Woman from feeling truly threatening. After all, much of the film’s narrative is focused on Molina’s determination to help Valentin to spend time away from reality. This is a film that sits at the feet of classic Hollywood, examining the ways that fantasy and reality can intersect. Although the aesthetic is entirely inauthentic, Molina believes that there is something truly wonderful about being swept away by the passion of a musical. To him, this expression of cinema is more than ‘just a movie’.
To him, it’s a spiritual experience.
Molina believes that there’s something… more… about cinematic frivolity. There’s a hopefulness that it provides them that matters, especially at a time of heavy oppression. It’s not just about the romance or dance moves. They recognize that the celebration of good is necessary at a time when, frankly, nothing seems good at all. Through their experience with the story, Molina finds connection and empowerment to celebrate their identity. It’s not about delusion. It’s about recognizing that joy and empowerment still exist.
While Kiss of the Spider Woman isn’t perfect, one can’t deny that its strong performances and visuals make this an utterly entertaining ride to take. JLo’s enthusiasm and Tonatiuh’s endearing spirit buoy give the film life. And, coming at a time when the news feels darker every day, maybe it’s good for us to take solace in the rebellious spirit that can come from the arts as well.
Kiss of the Spider Woman is available in theatres on Friday, October 17th, 2025.
