Director Discusses Jennifer Lopez and Diego Luna’s Dynamic in Kiss of the Spider Woman

Bill Condon on Jennifer Lopez and Diego Luna’s Connection

Director Bill Condon recently shared insights about the chemistry between Jennifer Lopez and Diego Luna during the filming of “Kiss of the Spider Woman.” He described their bond as “beautiful” and highlighted how Lopez played a nurturing role for Luna.

A Mentor and a Friend

Lopez, known for her extensive experience on movie sets, wasn’t merely a star; she stepped in as a mentor for Luna, who faced insecurities. Condon noted, “Diego came into this as a non-dancer. He’s a great actor, but he shared his insecurity with Jennifer and she gave him a wonderful note.”

This guidance helped spark a captivating chemistry between them, which Condon found wonderful to observe. “It was beautiful to watch them grow closer. As the movie progressed, they spent more time together,” he recalled.

Experience Shines Through

At 56, Lopez’s proficiency in choreography is renowned. Condon remarked, “She knows everything about musical performance, choreographers, and staging.” Luna, at 45, leveraged her expertise, benefiting from her vast knowledge.

Tonatiuh, who plays Luna’s fellow inmate, mentioned that working with Lopez felt like experiencing “lightning strikes.” He shared, “Powerful and beautiful. You’re just left in awe.”

Adapting a Broadway Classic

“Kiss of the Spider Woman,” directed by Condon, reimagines the 1993 Tony-winning Broadway musical. The story involves two prisoners in a South American jail—a Marxist revolutionary (Luna) and a gay window dresser (Tonatiuh)—who escape through fantasies, with Lopez portraying the glamorous star in their imaginations.

This project, produced by Ben Affleck and Matt Damon’s Artists Equity banner, marks Lopez’s return to the big screen following “Atlas.”

A Blend of Emotion and Entertainment

Citing “Kiss of the Spider Woman” as “two movies in one,” Condon emphasized its balance of classic musical tribute and emotional drama. He noted, “You want a full meal when you go to the movies. This gives you emotion and a big dollop of entertainment that makes it easier to take.”

The film was released in theaters on October 10.

Frequently Asked Questions

What did Bill Condon say about Jennifer Lopez and Diego Luna’s relationship on set?

Condon shared that Lopez took Luna “under her wing,” offering him support in overcoming his lack of confidence as a non-dancer.

What is “Kiss of the Spider Woman” about?

The film explores two prisoners escaping their grim circumstances through fantasies featuring a glamorous movie star, played by Lopez.

Who else appears in the film?

Alongside Lopez and Luna, Tonatiuh is part of the cast and praised Lopez’s performance as “watching lightning strike.”