Kiss of the Spider Woman is a highly anticipated American musical drama movie directed by Bill Condon, set for release on October 10, 2025. Adapted from the acclaimed Broadway musical and Manuel Puig’s 1976 novel, the movie explores the intense emotional bond forged between two prisoners, all while the haunting specter of the Spider Woman invades their reality and imaginations during a turbulent political era.
What is the movie ‘Kiss of the Spider Woman’ about?: Plot Details
The story centers on Valentín Arregui (Diego Luna), a political prisoner, and Luis Molina (Tonatiuh), a gay window dresser imprisoned for public indecency. Forced to share a grim cell, the two men form an unlikely relationship when Molina helps them both escape the horrors of their confinement by spinning vivid tales of classic Hollywood melodramas—starring his favorite silver-screen diva, Ingrid Luna (Jennifer Lopez), who embodies both fantasy heroine and the deadly Spider Woman.
As the power of storytelling blurs with reality, Valentin and Molina’s friendship deepens into intimacy. But with hidden agendas, growing trust, and the seductive pull of the Spider Woman, they are forced to confront loyalties, secrets, and personal transformation against a backdrop of relentless political oppression.
Cast
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Jennifer Lopez as Ingrid Luna/Aurora/The Spider Woman
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Diego Luna as Valentín Arregui/Armando
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Tonatiuh as Luis Molina/Kendall Nesbitt
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Tony Dovolani as Johnny Desiderio
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Josefina Scaglione as Marta
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Bruno Bichir as The Warden
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Aline Mayagoitia as Paulina
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Kevin Michael Brennan as Shady Mocambo Man
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Thomas Canestraro as Desiderio’s Henchman
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Eduardo Ramos as Armando
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David Turner as Kendall Nesbitt
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Lynn Favin as Villager
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Odain Watson as Villager
Supporting roles are filled by a broad ensemble of dancers, prison staff, and villagers, creating a lush theatrical world within the cell.
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Production
Bill Condon both wrote and directed the film, adapting the Tony Award-winning musical (itself based on Puig’s novel). Jennifer Lopez leads and also executive produces via Nuyorican Productions, joined by Diego Luna (who also executive produces), Ben Affleck, and Matt Damon. The movie features choreography by Sergio Trujillo and Brandon Bieber. Principal filming began in March 2024 in New Jersey, with Lopez describing her musical numbers as “equal parts exhilarating and exhausting”—each staged in a single take. Production wrapped in June 2024, and the film is dedicated to the memories of the musical’s creators.
Release Date
Kiss of the Spider Woman premiered at the Sundance Film Festival on January 26, 2025, where it earned a standing ovation and positive reviews. Theatrical release across the United States is scheduled for October 10, 2025, distributed by Lionsgate, Roadside Attractions, and LD Entertainment.
Trailer
The first teaser trailer was released on June 5, 2025, with the official trailer launching on August 20, 2025. Promos highlight the film’s lush musical numbers, intense prison drama, and Jennifer Lopez’s captivating dual performance as both the dazzling screen diva and the menacing Spider Woman. The film’s soundtrack—featuring Lopez’s rendition of the iconic title song—has already generated excitement among musical fans.
Kiss of the Spider Woman is poised to be a moving, visually striking adaptation, blending fantasy, romance, and political intrigue—making it one to watch this fall.
