Of course, Hurt had the more challenging role. He plays a homosexual who fantasizes about being a glamorous woman, while imprisoned in an South American country for 'corrupting' a minor. His cellmate is political prisoner Raul Julia, who is devoted almost completely to his cause of overthrowing the despotic government.

At first, Julia detests his effeminate, flirtatious cellmate, who insists on retelling and embellishing a Nazi propaganda film that he once saw. (This film stars Braga, who also plays Julia's lover.) However, Hurt's kindness to Julia gradually leads to their friendship.

Hurt was well cast. His facial expressions are perfect for conveying the deeply felt emotions of his character, and never falls into the easy trap of making the role campy. Julia's rage and despair are also well delivered, and there are strong supporting performances by Jose Lewgoy and Milton Goncalves, who play malevolent government agents.

"Kiss of the Spider Woman" also received Oscar nominations for Best Picture, Best Director (Hector Babenco), and Best Adapted Screenplay (Leonard Schrader).