The entertainment world is buzzing with fresh headlines, from a surprising red-carpet reunion to a bold new musical film stealing the spotlight. Here’s your roundup of the latest in Hollywood, centered on Jennifer Lopez, Ben Affleck, and their cinematic collaboration, Kiss of the Spider Woman.
J.Lo and Ben Affleck: Amicable Exes at Kiss of the Spider Woman Premiere
Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck, once the tabloid-dominating “Bennifer,” proved their professional bond remains strong at the New York City premiere of Kiss of the Spider Woman on October 6, 2025. The exes, who finalized their divorce in January 2025 after filing for separation in August 2024, reunited on the red carpet for the first time since their breakup. Affleck, an executive producer via his company Artists Equity, praised Lopez’s “amazing” performance, telling Extra, “I’m as proud of this movie as any I’ve ever been involved with.” Lopez, radiant in a sparkling gown, credited Affleck for making the film possible, calling it a “lifeline” during personal struggles.
The moment wasn’t without awkwardness. On NBC’s Today show that morning, Lopez deftly sidestepped a question about filming amid their divorce, playfully scolding host Craig Melvin with a “Look at this guy!” before focusing on the movie’s creative highs. In a recent CBS Sunday Morning interview, Lopez reflected positively on the split, saying it “changed me” and was “the best thing that ever happened to me,” highlighting her growth. Fans on X are eating it up, with posts praising their mature co-parenting and professional respect, calling the divorce a “growth moment” for Lopez.
Kiss of the Spider Woman: A Musical Triumph
At the heart of this reunion is “Kiss of the Spider Woman,” a 2025 musical drama directed by Bill Condon, which reimagines the 1976 novel and 1993 Broadway hit. Set during Argentina’s 1981 Dirty War, the film follows two cellmates—Valentín (Diego Luna), a Marxist prisoner, and Luis Molina (Tonatiuh), a gay window dresser—who bond through Molina’s vivid fantasies of Hollywood diva Ingrid Luna (Jennifer Lopez). The $30 million indie production blends gritty prison scenes with lush, Technicolor musical numbers, using aspect ratio shifts (1.85:1 for reality, 1.33:1 for fantasy) to striking effect.
Lopez shines in a triple-threat role as Ingrid and the deadly “Spider Woman,” earning Oscar buzz for her singing, dancing, and dramatic depth. Tonatiuh’s breakout performance as Molina is the emotional core, with critics hailing his “charismatic vulnerability.” Diego Luna grounds the film as Valentín, while Bruno Bichir plays the menacing Warden. The soundtrack, featuring Kander-Ebb classics like “Kiss of the Spider Woman” and new tracks like “I Will Dance Alone,” dropped its lead single on September 5 via Lakeshore Records.
Premiering at Sundance 2025 to a standing ovation, the film hits U.S. theaters October 10 via Lionsgate, Roadside Attractions, and LD Entertainment. Critics give it an 82% on Rotten Tomatoes, praising its “sumptuous web of musical intrigue” but noting pacing issues in the prison scenes. Metacritic scores it 60/100, reflecting mixed reviews on tone. Social media buzz on X calls it “entertaining and shattering,” with Lopez’s WorldPride performance of the title track amplifying its queer resonance.
Production Notes and Cultural Impact
Shot in New Jersey from March to June 2024, Kiss of the Spider Woman was a passion project for Condon, who drew from Cabaret’s playbook. Lopez, who lost weight for the role and nailed single-take dances, called it her career’s “best thing.” Affleck and Matt Damon’s Artists Equity backed the film, with Lopez thanking them for its existence. The movie, dedicated to Broadway legends Fred Ebb, Terrence McNally, and Chita Rivera, tackles themes of queer resilience and escapism “in times of hate,” as Lopez noted.https://www.ndtv.com/entertainment
What’s Next?
As Kiss of the Spider Woman gears up for its wide release, all eyes are on Lopez and Tonatiuh for awards season. Will J.Lo snag that elusive Oscar nod? Can Affleck and Lopez keep their post-divorce harmony? Stay tuned for box office numbers and more red-carpet moments. For trailers or tickets, check Lionsgate’s official site or streaming platforms post-release.Arts and Entertainment