Jennifer Lopez champions new film ‘Kiss of the Spider Woman’ as a timely tribute to Latin and queer communities

Jennifer Lopez has spoken passionately about her latest film, Kiss of the Spider Woman, describing it as a “love letter” to Latin and queer communities at a time when they are “being demonised and marginalised”.

In an interview with CBS News’ Sunday Morning, Lopez, who stars in and produces the musical drama, emphasised the importance of retelling this story now. “In times of hate, love is the answer, and that’s really what the movie is about,” she said.

“Because in a time like this, when those communities are being demonised and marginalised, this is a big movie with three Latin stars in it, with the lead being from the queer community as well. So, again, I feel like this story, as many times as it’s been told, needed to be told again.” 

Directed by Oscar-winner Bill Condon, Kiss of the Spider Woman is based on the 1976 novel by Argentine author Manuel Puig and the Tony Award-winning musical adaptation by Terrence McNally, John Kander and Fred Ebb. The film is set in a military-run prison in 1980s Argentina and centres on the relationship between two cellmates: Molina (played by Tonatiuh), a gay window dresser imprisoned for indecency, and Valentin (Diego Luna), a Marxist revolutionary. Lopez portrays Ingrid Luna, a glamorous screen diva whose imagined performances offer the prisoners a form of escape and connection.

In times of hate, love is the answer, and that’s really what the movie is about.

Lopez’s portrayal of Ingrid Luna is layered with themes of resistance and identity. The character refuses to be Americanised, a symbolic act that resonates with the film’s broader message about cultural authenticity and pride. 

The film premiered to acclaim at the Sundance Film Festival earlier this year, earning a standing ovation and sparking early awards buzz. Critics have praised its blend of Old Hollywood musical flair with poignant political and social commentary. Lopez’s performance, alongside Tonatiuh’s emotionally rich portrayal of Molina, has been described as revelatory. 

Reflecting on her own journey, Lopez noted the personal significance of the project. “When times are awful, we turn to art and beauty and music and movies to save us,” she said.

Lopez has a long and consistent history of allyship and activism in support of LGBTQ+ communities. She has spoken openly about having family members who are part of the queer community, including her late aunt Myrza, who was openly gay. She has credited Myrza as a major influence on her activism and her decision to produce inclusive projects like The Fosters. 

She has also publicly supported her child Emme, who uses they/them pronouns, referring to them lovingly as one of her “niblings”.

Kiss of the Spider Woman is set for theatrical release on 10 October 2025.