In a highly anticipated move, the feature musical Kiss of the Spider Woman, starring Jennifer Lopez, Diego Luna, and Tonatiuh, is set to receive a wide theatrical release on October 10, 2025. This film adaptation of the beloved Broadway musical has generated considerable buzz following its premiere at the Sundance Film Festival earlier this year, where it was met with critical acclaim.
According to Deadline, the North American rights for Kiss of the Spider Woman were acquired by Roadside Attractions, Lionsgate, and LD Entertainment shortly after its Sundance debut. The film will be released alongside several other major titles, including Disney’s Tron: Ares, Warner Bros/Legendary’s Animal Friends, featuring Jason Momoa and Ryan Reynolds, and Amazon MGM Studios’ thriller After the Hunt, starring Julia Roberts, Andrew Garfield, and Ayo Edebiri.
Directed by Bill Condon, Kiss of the Spider Woman is based on the book by Terrence McNally and features songs by John Kander and Fred Ebb from the Broadway show. The original story, penned by Argentinian author Manuel Puig in 1976, has seen various adaptations, including the Oscar-winning film from 1985 that starred William Hurt, Raul Julia, and Sônia Braga.
In this latest adaptation, Luna and Tonatiuh portray jail cellmates Valentín and Luis, respectively, in a military-run Argentinian prison during the year 1983. The character Luis, a gay widow dresser, keeps Valentín's spirits high by sharing tales about his favorite actress, Ingrid Luna, played by Lopez, and the iconic movie musicals she starred in. The film delves into the complex relationship between the two men as they navigate the challenges of their oppressive environment.
Critics have already begun to praise the film, with Kiss of the Spider Woman boasting an impressive 82% fresh rating on Rotten Tomatoes following its Sundance premiere. Film critic Pete Hammond highlighted Lopez's performance, stating, "Jennifer Lopez has the whole package—singing, dancing, acting—and she has never gotten the opportunity to show on screen in this way. Lopez has always been underrated for her chops as a dramatic actress, but fans of the period and the films emulated here will see favorable comparisons with Columbia musical icon Rita Hayworth, MGM diva Cyd Charisse, Ava Gardner, even Marilyn Monroe in the delicious ‘Gimme Love’ number, choreographed by Christopher Scott, where Aurora is surrounded by male dancers a la Marilyn in ‘Diamonds are a Girl’s Best Friend.’"
This upcoming release is not only a significant moment for Lopez, who has long been recognized for her musical talents but also marks a return to a compelling narrative that explores themes of love, sacrifice, and resilience in the face of adversity. The film’s rich history, combined with its star-studded cast and creative team, positions Kiss of the Spider Woman as a strong contender for awards season.
As October approaches, audiences will be eager to see how Kiss of the Spider Woman performs at the box office and whether it can capture the hearts of both critics and moviegoers alike. Its release will undoubtedly contribute to the ongoing conversation about representation and the importance of storytelling in cinema.
In addition to its theatrical release, Kiss of the Spider Woman is poised to make a significant impact in the awards circuit, with many anticipating nominations for its performances, direction, and musical numbers. As the film prepares to hit theaters, its creators and stars are hopeful that it will resonate with audiences and spark discussions about the themes it presents.
With its blend of drama, music, and poignant storytelling, Kiss of the Spider Woman is set to be a cinematic experience that captivates and inspires. As fans of the original story and newcomers alike look forward to its release, the film stands as a testament to the enduring power of narrative and the arts in exploring the human experience.
