Jennifer Lopez was overwhelmed with emotion as she received a standing ovation following a special screening of her latest film at the Sundance Film Festival in Utah.
- Jan 27, 2025
AceShowbiz - Jennifer Lopez received a standing ovation following the premiere of her new movie "Kiss of the Spider Woman" at the 2025 Sundance Film Festival in Park City, Utah. Dressed in a stunning webbed gown, the actress/singer got teary eyes in a heartfelt moment at the Eccles Theatre.
"I've been waiting for this moment my whole life. The reason I even wanted to be in this business is because my mom would sit me in front of the TV and [West Side Story] would come on once a year. I was mesmerized and was like, 'That's what I want to do.' This is the first time I actually got to do it," she said in her speech.
The film, directed by Bill Condon, is an adaptation of Manuel Puig's 1976 novel and the Tony-winning Broadway musical. It tells the tale of two Argentinian prisoners -Luis Molina, a queer window dresser played by Tonatiuh Elizarraraz, and Diego Luna's political prisoner character, Valentin Arregui - who bond over Molina's vivid stories about a glamorous screen diva, Ingrid Luna, played by Lopez.
Condon, a celebrated director known for "Chicago" and "Dreamgirls," echoed Lopez's sentiments, expressing his own long-held desire to bring the story to the screen. "I came here 27 years ago. The experience of launching that movie here is something I'll never forget. 'Kiss of the Spider Woman' is a movie I started thinking about all those years ago. It's a movie I've wanted to make my entire life," he shared.
The film also delves into important social themes. Condon addressed the significance of the story in the current cultural climate, touching on issues faced by the queer and trans communities. "Crucially, the most important thing is that we have to bridge these differences. There's a sense in this movie that the only way through is love and kindness," he noted to resounding applause.
Tonatiuh spoke about the personal impact of playing Luis Molina, reflecting on his experiences growing up as a "fem, queer Latin kid." He expressed that the role resonated deeply with him and gave him a chance to celebrate a part of himself that he once was told to suppress.
"Kiss of the Spider Woman" marks a significant milestone in Lopez's illustrious career, one that showcases her versatility and commitment to her craft. The film is currently seeking distribution, radiating Sundance buzz and anticipation for its wider release.
