Kiss of the Spider Woman, a musical remake starring Jennifer Lopez and directed by Bill Condon, is close to a sale after its premiere at the Sundance Film Festival. Roadside Attractions, Lionsgate, and LD Entertainment are in discussions for the domestic rights, though no deal has been finalized.
The film, independently financed at around $30 million, is based on Manuel Puig’s novel and set in an Argentine prison in 1981. It follows Luis Molina (Tonatiuh), a queer prisoner who escapes his harsh reality by imagining stories about his favorite actress, Ingrid Luna (Lopez), who plays the deadly Spider Woman. Molina’s life shifts when he bonds with a new cellmate (Diego Luna).
This is the second film adaptation of the novel, following the 1985 version starring William Hurt, which won an Oscar. The Broadway musical, which debuted in 1993, also won several Tony Awards.
Lopez, wearing a sparkling gown, was visibly emotional at the premiere, where the film received a standing ovation. “I’ve been waiting for this moment my whole life,” she said.
Condon, known for his work on Chicago and Dreamgirls, expressed his deep connection to the project. “It’s a movie I’ve wanted to make my entire life,” he said.
Variety’s Peter Debruge praised Lopez’s performance, but noted that newcomer Tonatiuh was the standout, finding strength and vulnerability in his role.
Related topics:
