Everything we know about the queer historical drama "La Bola Negra," which captivated the Cannes Film Festival

The Spanish-language film "La Bola Negra" began as a small project, but it has become a critical darling and an unexpected success story.

This major project from directors Javier Calvo and Javier Ambrossi (known in industry circles as "Los Xavis") won the Best Director award at the Cannes Film Festival, and received a 20-minute standing ovation after the screening, making it one of the most talked-about events of the festival. Following the screening, a competition between studios for the film's distribution rights began.

Although Calvo and Ambrossi ended their romantic relationship in November 2025 after a 13-year relationship, the couple, who are known as jury members on the show "Drag Race España," have continued their professional collaboration.

The film is not only directed by gay directors and stars openly gay actor Julio Torres in the lead role. It brings together the stories of three gay men living in different historical periods. While the number of LGBTQI+ feature films is still low, "La Bola Negra" is expected to be in the spotlight both with audiences and during awards season.

Who is in the cast?

Julio Torres, known for his TV series "Problemista" and "Los Espookys," plays Juan Pablo. Famous Spanish singer-songwriter Gitarricadelafuente plays Sebastian. They are supported by "Elite" stars Miguel Bernardeau, Carlos Gonzalez, Milo Quifes, and Lola Duenas. The casting is completed by Hollywood stars Penelope Cruz and Glen Close.

What is the plot about?

The film's title is taken from an unfinished play by Federico García Lorca. The events take place during three important periods in Spanish history, 1932, 1937, and 2017, and follow the stories of three gay men who are related to each other. This queer story that transcends time is inspired by Lorca and Alberto's unfinished play "La Piedra Oscura" (The Dark Stone), and the script was co-written by the directors.

Release dates

"La Bola Negra" opens in theaters on October 16 and will be available on Netflix on December 2. For Netflix, which won the competition for US distribution rights after its success at Cannes, this will be the longest-running theatrical release since "Marriage Story" in 2019.

Source: Out.com

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