Jennifer Lopez and Tonatiuh Spotlight Queer Stories in 'Kiss of the Spider Woman' Film Adaptation

The September/October 2025 issue of Out Magazine features a cover story on Jennifer Lopez and Tonatiuh, who are set to star in the new musical drama adaptation of 'Kiss of the Spider Woman.' The film reimagines Manuel Puig's landmark novel, centering on the relationship between a queer window dresser, played by Tonatiuh, and the fantasy worlds he creates to cope with persecution. Jennifer Lopez takes on a pivotal supporting role, marking her continued commitment to projects foregrounding marginalized voices in Hollywood .

This adaptation arrives at a time when the inclusion of LGBTQ+ narratives in mainstream cinema remains a subject of public discourse. The original story, renowned for its exploration of identity, desire, and political repression, is considered a milestone in queer literature and film. By casting high-profile actors like Lopez and emerging stars like Tonatiuh, the production aims to amplify the story's impact and reach both LGBTQ+ and general audiences .

Lopez, speaking to Out Magazine, emphasized the project's urgency: “This film is about survival through fantasy, but also about the power of chosen family and community. Bringing this story to a new generation feels especially important now, when so many queer and trans people are fighting for visibility and safety” . Tonatiuh added that portraying a character whose imagination becomes a lifeline under persecution is both a privilege and a responsibility: “So many LGBTQ+ people use art, fantasy, and friendship to survive in hostile environments. This film honors that resilience” .

The musical adaptation draws inspiration from the 1985 Oscar-winning film and the Tony Award-winning Broadway musical, but centers queer Latinx perspectives, reflecting the lived realities of its cast and creative team. The production team includes several LGBTQ+ professionals behind the camera, furthering Out Magazine’s long-standing commitment to highlighting authentic voices in queer storytelling .

First published in 1976, 'Kiss of the Spider Woman' has become a touchstone for queer readers around the world. Its story of two men—one gay, one political prisoner—sharing a cell resonates with generations of LGBTQ+ people who have faced marginalization. The narrative’s use of fantasy as a coping mechanism has been widely analyzed as a metaphor for queer survival strategies under oppression .

Each adaptation, from stage to screen, has faced unique challenges. The current film, with Lopez and Tonatiuh at the helm, seeks to update the narrative for a 21st-century audience, acknowledging the ongoing threats to LGBTQ+ rights globally while celebrating the enduring power of queer joy and imagination .

The Out Magazine feature situates 'Kiss of the Spider Woman' within a broader trend of increased queer visibility in entertainment. Recent years have seen a surge in LGBTQ+ characters and stories, though advocates note that equitable representation remains a work in progress. Jennifer Lopez’s involvement, as both a producer and actor, signals a growing commitment among A-list talent to champion LGBTQ+ projects .

Tonatiuh’s casting is similarly significant: as an openly queer Latinx actor, his leading role reflects both progress and ongoing challenges in the industry. He told Out Magazine, “Being visible as a queer actor of color is about more than just representation—it’s about opening doors for others” .

The film’s release is timed to coincide with the fall festival circuit, with screenings planned in major cities known for vibrant LGBTQ+ communities. Early response from critics and community leaders suggests that the adaptation will spark renewed conversations about the intersections of art, identity, and resistance .

As the entertainment landscape evolves, stories like 'Kiss of the Spider Woman' continue to play a vital role in affirming the lives and experiences of LGBTQ+ people. The Out Magazine cover story not only celebrates the work of Lopez and Tonatiuh but also underscores the necessity of queer storytelling in a world where visibility and safety remain contested. Their collaboration stands as a testament to the resilience and creativity at the heart of the LGBTQ+ community .