Kiss of the Spider Woman Adaptation Revives Classic with Deeper Queer Romance

A new film version of “Kiss of the Spider Woman” arrives in theaters. The movie musical stars Jennifer Lopez in multiple roles. It is directed by Bill Condon, known for “Dreamgirls”.

This 2025 adaptation delves more overtly into the queer love story at its core. It is based on the 1993 Broadway musical, which itself was adapted from a 1976 novel.

Jennifer Lopez Embraces Triple Role in Ambitious Musical Retelling

Jennifer Lopez portrays three distinct characters. She is the Spider Woman, the Hollywood actress Aurora, and the film star Ingrid Luna. Lopez explained her approach to making each role unique.

She described using different singing voices for each character. According to Lopez, the Spider Woman required a darker tone. Aurora needed a lighter, more romantic sound.

New Film Builds on Groundbreaking Legacy with Modern Sensibility

The story follows two cellmates in a political prison. Diego Luna plays Valentín, a political prisoner. Tonatiuh plays Molina, a window dresser convicted of public indecency.

Director Bill Condon acknowledged the impact of the original 1985 film. He stated it was groundbreaking for its time. Condon said it meant a lot to him as a young gay man.

The new version expands the romance between the two main characters. It aims to celebrate Latino and queer resilience. The film also carries a universal message of love.

Tonatiuh described the project as something bigger than the cast. He said it brought the team joy during production. He hopes it reminds audiences of the dignity within these communities.

The “Kiss of the Spider Woman” 2025 adaptation redefines the classic for a new generation. This fresh take emphasizes love and resilience. The film is now showing in theaters.

Thought you’d like to know

Who stars in the new Kiss of the Spider Woman movie?

Jennifer Lopez, Diego Luna, and Tonatiuh Elizarraraz lead the cast. Lopez plays three separate roles in the film. The project is directed by Bill Condon.

How is the 2025 version different from the 1985 film?

The new adaptation delves more openly into the queer romance. It is based on the Broadway musical rather than directly on the novel. The film incorporates large-scale musical numbers.

What is the basic plot of Kiss of the Spider Woman?

The story follows two cellmates in a political prison. Their unlikely bond grows as one shares stories of a glamorous film star. A complex romance develops between them.

When was the Kiss of the Spider Woman released?

The film arrived in theaters on a Friday in 2025. The exact release date was confirmed by the distributors. The movie is now available for public viewing.

What was the source material for this adaptation?

The film is based on the 1993 Broadway musical. That musical was itself adapted from Manuel Puig’s 1976 novel. This creates a layered adaptation history.

Trusted Sources: Reuters, Associated Press, The Hollywood Reporter