Kiss of the Spider Woman

Prisoners are subjected to severe physical abuse, including beatings with truncheons and torture with electrical shocks, with men heard screaming and seen with bloody injuries. Valentín Arregui is repeatedly and brutally tortured for information by prison guards. A beaten corpse is shown, and a man is shot, dying in a pool of blood. Luis Molina is ultimately shot dead by one of Valentín's comrades to prevent his capture and interrogation. The film also includes mentions of protesters being attacked by police and a character's sister being killed by police.

The film features multiple scenes of men kissing, particularly between Molina and Valentín. Sexual activity between the two male prisoners is implied; two men are shown in bed in dim light with sex implied but not explicitly seen. In another scene, 'shirtless men have sex without explicit nudity but with groaning and thrusting'. Oral sex is implied between two men as a pantomime to deceive prison guards. In fantasy sequences, a woman's breast is briefly visible in a dress with deep cleavage, and seductive dancing and flirtation are present.

The script contains 'at least 17 sexual expletives,' 'a half dozen scatological curses,' and 'a few terms of deity'. Parental guides note frequent strong profanity, including multiple uses of 'f—' and 's—'. Several homophobic slurs are employed within the dialogue, particularly reflecting the harsh prison environment.

The prison environment is described as 'dark and realistic,' featuring elements of 'torture, threats, possible killings/disappearances'. Scenes of corporal punishment, food poisoning causing sickness and distress, and the display of a corpse contribute to the disturbing imagery. Valentín endures brutal and repeated torture, creating life-threatening and emotionally intense situations. The overall narrative portrays a 'grim viewing' experience, even with the contrasting musical fantasies.