Kiss of the Spider Woman (re-release)

Valentin Arregui finds himself imprisoned in Brazil during the oppressive military dictatorship. His incarceration stems from his involvement with a leftist revolutionary faction, which positions him alongside unexpected company in a harsh environment.

Luis Molina, a gay man, shares his prison cell with Valentin and serves time for 'corrupting an underage youth.' Their contrasting backgrounds create a complex dynamic that fundamentally influences their interactions throughout their confinement.

To alleviate the unbearable reality of their imprisonment, Molina begins recounting tales from a treasured wartime romantic thriller film. His stories serve not only as distractions for Valentin but also as a means of coping with the dire circumstances they face.

As they navigate their harsh realities, Valentin and Molina's interactions evolve from friction to camaraderie. Valentin strives to instill political awareness in Molina, challenging him to rise above his superficial engagement with fantasy and romance.

Amidst their growing bond, Valentin begins to suffer from mysterious health issues. It is unveiled that their captors are administering poison to him, a tactic intended to manipulate Molina into becoming an informant for the secret police.

During a poignant moment, Molina confesses his love for Valentin, leading to a passionate night together. This emotional encounter deepens their connection and underscores the stakes of their situation as Molina faces the impending reality of parole.

In a surprising turn of events, Molina is granted parole by the secret police. This uneasy victory is tinged with dread, and Valentin provides him with a crucial phone number to relay to his revolutionary circle, a gesture of hope intertwined with potential betrayal.

Upon his release, Molina navigates the treacherous path of connecting with Valentin's comrades. However, his movements are closely monitored by the secret police, setting the stage for imminent danger as he attempts to fulfill the promise made to Valentin.

Molina arranges a secret meeting with the revolutionary group to share the information entrusted to him. However, the atmosphere swiftly shifts to chaos as the secret police uncover his plans, resulting in gunfire and violence.

Despite being critically wounded, Molina remains resolute when confronted by the secret police. He refuses to disclose the critical phone number and stands firm in his loyalty to Valentin and their revolutionary cause, showcasing his bravery in the face of death.

Ultimately, Molina succumbs to his injuries, a tragic outcome orchestrated by the oppression surrounding him. The secret police dispose of his body, crafting a narrative to obfuscate the truths of his demise and his bond with Valentin.

As Molina’s fate unfolds, Valentin endures severe torture within the prison walls. His suffering is alleviated briefly by a compassionate doctor who administers morphine, showcasing the dangers faced by those who oppose the regime.

Near the brink of death, Valentin experiences a surreal moment where he envisions escaping prison with Marta. Their imagined journey to a beautiful tropical island signifies a longing for freedom and hope amidst pervasive despair.