Carlos Boyero has put La bola negra into the awards conversation before its cinema release. He believes Javier Calvo and Javier Ambrossi have made a film worthy of recognition at the Academy Awards or the Goya Awards. His view is striking because he also calls the film unusual and admits that some parts are hard to follow.
That difficulty has not weakened its effect on him. Boyero discussed the film on La Ventana on Cadena SER after attending a preview screening. He said it held his attention throughout, with its emotional force emerging as the story moves through several layers. It follows three men across almost a century of Spanish history.
His praise begins with the directors. Boyero sees visual instinct matched with control in Javier Calvo and Javier Ambrossi. He believes they twist their stories so several subjects can unfold at once. The film does not build a simple account around one idea.
That approach can be confusing, but it keeps hold of the viewer.
Boyero singled out the opening as one of the film’s strongest moments, calling it extraordinary. He also praised the directors’ command of the image, which he says is clear from the start. The plot left him disoriented at times, but the film’s construction drew him back instead of pushing him away.
The cast gave him another reason to respond so warmly. Guitarricadelafuente has one of the leading roles and drew particular praise. Boyero sees the performer as a natural fit for the camera, valuing spontaneity over large gestures. That restraint, he says, gives the character tenderness and credibility.
Penélope Cruz also receives a strong endorsement. Boyero rejects the idea that her part might be marginal, pointing instead to her work as a cabaret performer and singer. In his view, she is a powerful actress whose contribution works every time she appears.
These comments give La bola negra a sharper profile than a routine pre-release recommendation. Boyero sees formal ambition and layered storytelling, while acknowledging that the same ambition can make the story harder to follow and that its emotional force remains basic.
La bola negra has been officially selected by Spain as its submission for the 2027 Academy Awards in the international feature category. It reaches Spanish cinemas on 25 September 2026. The Spanish Academy of Cinematography announced the selection, as noted in promotional material from Movistar Plus.
Boyero’s view comes before the public release, not after a completed awards campaign. Spain has already chosen the film as its official national entry, rather than leaving it as a simple contender.
The film has also built an international festival profile. Coverage mentions appearances in Cannes, Toronto and Sydney, alongside awards attention. The Film Verdict reports that Netflix acquired the film after Cannes. English-language coverage has begun discussing it as an early name in the 2027 international awards race, as well as Spain’s entry.
Movistar Plus says the film will first have a cinema window and later become available exclusively on the platform. International coverage identifies Netflix as an impressive partner for the wider release. The film has also featured in international coverage as one of the year’s impressive queer epics, adding to the attention around its national Oscar submission.
The strongest part of Boyero’s assessment is the balance between doubt and enthusiasm. He admits that the film can be strange and some passages may disorient viewers, yet says its visual force and emotional pull keep the story alive. La bola negra is presented as an ambitious film, with risks that form part of its identity.
Boyero’s view is direct: La bola negra stands out among Spanish releases. He considers it worthy of the Academy Award or the Goya Award.
