The eras-spanning Spanish epic La Bola Negra unfolds in an intricate pattern of plot and atmosphere summoned by filmmakers Javier Calvo and Javier Ambrossi (Los Javis). The duo, who also teamed to create HBO Max’s fierce trans-themed mini-series Veneno, layer the film with three interconnected plot lines: a modern-day generational mystery based in Madrid, a steamy gay romance between soldiers on opposite sides of the Spanish Civil War, and the scorching melodrama of a gay son of 1930s Granada society being blackballed from an exclusive club casino. Hence, la bola negra.
Through it all, one message that emerges especially clearly is that it’s better to be remembered as a homosexual than a fascist. Many present-day power brokers would be wise to keep that in mind.
You must be logged in to post a comment.