Netflix’s Global Sensation La Bola Negra Officially Makes Box Office History
Oscar hopes gather momentum
Netflix is putting much of its Academy Awards ambition behind La Bola Negra, a war drama from filmmaking duo Javier Calvo and Javier Ambrossi. The company previously earned three Oscars for 2025’s Frankenstein: Best Production Design, Best Costume Design, and Best Makeup and Hairstyling.
The film is among the leading contenders for next year’s Best Picture award, in a race headed by Christopher Nolan’s adaptation of Homer’s The Odyssey. Critics have praised La Bola Negra, which has been certified fresh on Rotten Tomatoes. In a Collider review, Victoria Luxford described the film as a “clear frontrunner for many categories at the Oscars.” She also said the enthusiasm for the imperfect but memorable saga was justified.
Spanish box office milestone
La Bola Negra has reached the third spot among Spain’s highest-grossing Spanish films, with €36.7 million ($41.0 million) earned at the domestic box office so far. The film remains in the early stages of its global theatrical run.
Only Emilio Martínez-Lázaro’s Ocho Apellidos Vascos and J.A. Bayona’s Lo Imposible have earned more among Spanish films in Spain. Strong audience word of mouth has helped the movie’s theatrical performance, prompting Netflix to release box-office figures.
Cast and wider context
The film features Penélope Cruz, Glenn Close, Milo Quifes, Álvaro Lafuente Calvo, and Miguel Bernardeau. Its box-office position and awards attention have made it a prominent title in Netflix’s current push for Academy recognition.
Key points
- La Bola Negra has earned €36.7 million ($41.0 million) at Spain’s domestic box office.
- It is the third-highest-grossing Spanish film in Spain, behind Ocho Apellidos Vascos and Lo Imposible.
- Javier Calvo and Javier Ambrossi directed the film, which is competing for attention in the Oscars race.