Here’s a harsh reality check: Jennifer Lopez’s latest film, Kiss of the Spider Woman, has crashed and burned at the box office, pulling in a mere $840,000 during its opening weekend—a staggering disappointment for a movie playing in over 1,300 theaters nationwide. But here’s where it gets controversial: despite solid reviews (77% on Rotten Tomatoes) and a star-studded cast, including Lopez herself and Andor’s Diego Luna, the film barely cracked the top 13 highest-grossing movies of the weekend. And this is the part most people miss: this isn’t just a flop—it’s part of a larger pattern in Lopez’s recent filmography, with no major hits since 2019’s Hustlers.
Directed by Bill Condon, known for Chicago and Twilight, Kiss of the Spider Woman is a reimagining of the 1985 classic by Héctor Babenco, which grossed $17 million globally. The new version, set primarily in an Argentinian prison, follows a queer window dresser who escapes his grim reality by fantasizing about a screen diva played by Lopez. Bold claim: even without accounting for inflation, this remake might struggle to match its predecessor’s success.
Financially, the stakes are high. The film was independently financed for $34 million before being acquired by Roadside Attractions and Lionsgate after its Sundance debut. The burning question: who will bear the brunt of these theatrical losses? Variety notes the financial ambiguity, leaving industry insiders scratching their heads.
Here’s the kicker: this film had all the ingredients for success—a talented cast, a renowned director, and a critically acclaimed source material. Yet, it failed to resonate with audiences. Is it a sign of shifting audience tastes, or a misstep in marketing? Or perhaps, as some critics suggest, the film’s niche appeal simply didn’t translate to mainstream box office success.
What do you think? Is Kiss of the Spider Woman a misunderstood gem, or a missed opportunity? Let’s spark a debate—share your thoughts in the comments below!
