A musical is dependent on its songs, and KISS OF THE SPIDER WOMAN has zero memorable songs. Well, I take that back – it has one memorable dance sequence with WHERE YOU ARE, which is essentially a rip-off of CHICAGO’S, CELL BLOCK TANGO… but not as catchy.
The film has some fantastic actors (Diego Luna, Tonatiuh, and Jennifer Lopez). Yet, none of them really shine due to the messy narrative structure and direction by Bill Condon (DREAMGIRLS). There’s the prison cell component with Luna and Tonatiuh, where the two actors deliver exposition in monologues about revolution, trauma, sexual tension, movies, and musicals. And the fantasy world of the Spider Woman with Jennifer Lopez. Those scenes are electric to watch and well-choreographed. Sadly, it doesn’t matter since, again, the songs are so mid.
Final Thought: The filmmakers can ‘kiss’ their chances of winning any awards goodbye with KISS OF THE SPIDER WOMAN. A messy sexual exploration that shouldn’t have been remade… again.
The film is available to purchase or rent on most streaming platforms.
