Jennifer Lopez Gets Standing Ovation at Sundance

Michelle Vueges
3 Min Read
jennifer lopez gets standing ovation at Sundance

Jennifer Lopez fought back tears as Kiss of the Spider Woman received a standing ovation at the Sundance Film Festival. The musical adaptation, directed by Bill Condon, fulfilled Lopez’s lifelong dream. “I’ve been waiting for this moment my whole life,” Lopez said.

Lopez explained that her desire to be in the business stemmed from childhood memories of watching West Side Story with her mom. “This is the first time I actually got to do it. This man-made my dream come true.”

Condon, known for Chicago, Dreamgirls, and The Greatest Showman, last premiered a film at Sundance 27 years ago with Gods and Monsters. He shared that Kiss of the Spider Woman was a project he had considered for years. It’s a movie I’ve wanted to make my entire life.”

Set mostly in an Argentinian prison during the “Dirty War,” the film follows queer window dresser Luis Molina (Tonatiuh), who serves time for having sex with a man. He escapes imprisonment by telling vivid stories about his favorite screen diva, Ingrid Luna (Lopez), to his cellmate, political prisoner Valentin Arregui (Diego Luna).

Jennifer Lopez’s Dream Realized at Sundance

Tonatiuh joined Lopez and Condon on stage. The film, one of the buzziest of the year, is currently seeking distribution. Condon addressed the film’s political themes, quoting President Trump’s inauguration speech about gender. He said the movie offers a different perspective.

“The most important thing is bridging differences,” Condon added. “The only way through is love and kindness.”

Tonatiuh shared his personal connection to the story, recalling growing up as a queer Latin kid in a challenging culture. He fought to embrace who he was despite discouragement from others. When he read the script for Kiss of the Spider Woman, he instantly connected with the role of Luis Molina.

He explained that the character represented someone who felt like a loser but became their own hero through love.

Earlier, Lopez surprised the crowd at TAO Park City with a 10-minute performance of “All I Have” and other hits. She mingled with friends, including Tonatiuh, and danced to her classics like “Jenny from the Block.”

Jennifer Lopez Brings the Party to Sundance in Three Glamorous Looks

Lopez stole the spotlight throughout the event with her show-stopping outfits, including a stunning red carpet gown, a chic tailored suit, and a dazzling party dress. Each look was a testament to her effortless style and confidence, adding an extra layer of glamour to the festival. Whether on stage or mingling with friends, Lopez exuded star power, solidifying her status as a fashion icon. See her iconic looks HERE.

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