TIFF 2026 Review: La Bola Negra

A Beautiful and Heartbreaking Story of Queer Love Across Generations

One of the films I was really looking forward to watching at TIFF 2026 was La Bola Negra. With all the festival buzz surrounding it and its LGBTQ+ storyline, this was definitely one that caught my attention. I’ve always loved international films that explore queer stories, especially ones that bring attention to experiences and histories we don’t always get to see on screen.

Directed by Javier Calvo and Javier Ambrossi, La Bola Negra follows three interconnected stories set across different periods in Spanish history, exploring forbidden love, identity, and the struggles of being queer during a time when openly expressing who you were could come with devastating consequences. First of all, I thought this was a beautifully made film. From the cinematography to the music, there was something incredibly emotional about the way the story was told. However, I will say that the film was quite long, and personally, I wasn’t entirely convinced that it needed three separate storylines. While I appreciated what the filmmakers were trying to accomplish by connecting different generations, I found myself much more invested in Sebastián and Rafael’s relationship than the other two stories. And honestly, that was the storyline that really stayed with me.

Watching two people fall in love during a time when they couldn’t openly be together was heartbreaking. There’s something so painful about seeing people experience something as beautiful as love while knowing that the world around them refuses to accept it. Their story felt incredibly raw and emotional, and I thought the performances brought so much depth to that relationship. I also really enjoyed the supporting performances. Penélope Cruz was incredible, and I honestly didn’t even recognize her at first. Glenn Close was also wonderful, adding another memorable performance to an already impressive cast.

But what I appreciated most about La Bola Negra was the way it made me reflect on queer history. It’s hard to imagine living during a time when simply being yourself or loving someone could put your life in danger. Watching these stories unfold against the backdrop of war was a powerful reminder of what so many people had to endure and how far we’ve come, even though there’s still progress to be made. I think that’s also why this film can feel particularly emotional for queer audiences. There’s something about seeing those experiences represented on screen that hits a little differently. And the music only made those moments even more powerful.

Despite its length and my feeling that the multiple storylines weren’t entirely necessary, I really enjoyed La Bola Negra. The pacing kept me engaged, and the emotional storytelling was beautifully done.

The film went on to win the People’s Choice Award at TIFF 2026, and honestly, I can see why. Even though I had some criticisms, there’s no denying the emotional impact of this story and how beautifully it was brought to life.

Overall, La Bola Negra is a moving film about love, identity, and the importance of remembering stories that history has too often tried to erase.

Sebastián and Rafael’s story genuinely touched me, and it’s one that I think will stay with me long after watching the film.

Watch the trailer for La Bola Negra below

La Bola Negra releases on Netflix on December 2, 2026