“Kiss of the Spider Woman” presents a unique twist on the musical genre, with its characters engaging in conversations about the merits of musicals against the backdrop of Argentina’s tumultuous “Dirty War” era. Despite facing dire circumstances in prison, the unlikely bond between Molina and Arregui revolves around discussions of the fictional movie “Kiss of the Spider Woman,” which Molina holds dear as a form of escapism from their grim reality.
As Molina attempts to unravel Arregui’s mysterious past through their shared love for the musical, a significant obstacle emerges—Arregui despises musicals. This clash of preferences highlights a common critique of musicals as being unrealistic, a sentiment echoed by many who struggle to reconcile the idea of real-life individuals bursting into song and dance routines.
The film’s strength lies in its unabashed celebration of musicals and classic Hollywood, immersing viewers in Molina’s vivid musical world filled with dazzling performances and surreal staging reminiscent of iconic musicals. Tonatiuh’s portrayal of Molina, exploring themes of identity and resilience in the face of adversity, has garnered critical acclaim and early Oscar buzz.
However, the film’s commitment to the musical genre also poses challenges, with its overt theatricality and lack of realism drawing mixed reactions. Director Bill Condon’s approach eschews subtlety in favor of grandiose musical numbers, which may alienate viewers seeking a more grounded cinematic experience.
Despite its flaws, “Kiss of the Spider Woman” stands out as a bold and unapologetic take on the movie musical genre, defying conventions and embracing melodrama over realism. While it may not cater to all tastes, the film’s commitment to its unique vision sets it apart from more mainstream musical offerings.