Diego Luna and Jennifer Lopez Star in Provocative New Musical, Kiss of the Spider woman
A new adaptation of kiss of the Spider Woman is captivating audiences with its blend of political intrigue, cinematic fantasy, and vibrant musical numbers. Starring Diego Luna and Jennifer Lopez, the production explores complex themes of identity, betrayal, and the power of storytelling against the backdrop of a collapsing dictatorship.
The story unfolds in 1983, as a military dictatorship nears its end. Luis Molina (played by Tonatiuh Elizarraraz), a gay man imprisoned for public obscenity, shares a cell with Valentín Aguirre (Diego Luna), a revolutionary politician. Initially repelled by Molina’s flamboyant personality,Aguirre gradually finds himself drawn into the elaborate cinematic fantasies the decorator constructs,notably those centered around the 1940s Hollywood musical Spider woman’s Kiss.
Within these imagined narratives, Jennifer Lopez embodies Aurora, a successful musical author, and assumes the role of Kendall, her assistant, who transforms into the titular Spider Woman. Aguirre, in turn, becomes Armando, a photographer and Aurora’s love interest. Their story within a story unfolds with a wedding and a blossoming romance, interwoven with the appearances of characters like Paulina (Aline Mayagoitia), Aguirre’s former lover, and Johnny Desiderio (Tony dovolani), a menacing gangster.
The plot takes a darker turn with the revelation that Molina is acting as an informant for the prison director, offered parole in exchange for betraying his cellmate. As Molina continues to narrate his cinematic tales, haunted by memories of his mother, he is released from prison only to discover he is under surveillance by authorities seeking to uncover messages and contacts linked to the resistance.
The production is rooted in the acclaimed novel of the same name by Argentine author Manuel Puig (1932-1990). The story first gained prominence as a stage play before being adapted into a critically acclaimed 1985 film starring William Hurt, who won an Oscar for his portrayal of Luis, alongside Sonia Braga as the Spider Woman and Raul Julia as Valentine. A musical adaptation followed in 1993, featuring Chita Rivera (1933-2024) in the lead role, earning her a Tony Award.According to one critic, Lopez’s portrayal at times echoes Rivera’s iconic performance.
Reviewers note that Kiss of the Spider Woman delivers suspenseful moments and impressive musical numbers,with particular praise directed towards Elizarraraz’s performance. While the songs may not be promptly catchy, and the political weight feels somewhat subdued, the production excels in its visual presentation. The wardrobe is described as “optimal,” though some observers have noted attention to Jennifer Lopez’s figure. The cinematography is a “visual riot,” employing bold colors, especially red, and featuring melodic montage sequences.
The film, clocking in at 2 hours and 8 minutes, is expected to resonate with those who appreciate a tribute to classic musicals. However,others may find it overly elaborate. Despite its imperfections, one critic argues that the film is a compelling artistic statement: “sometimes frustrating and flashy, enthusiastic and confusing, daring and eager for success, dazzling and demonstrative of what cinema means to some people’s souls.” Initial reviews in the United States have been 59% positive and 41% mixed, suggesting the possibility of Academy Award consideration.
The production’s success hinges on its ability to balance the complex themes of political oppression, personal identity, and the escapism offered by the world of cinema, ultimately delivering a moving and expertly choreographed experience.
