El Bola
Seen it?2000 | 88 min | Drama
Sunday Safe Betearly ratingWhy it’s a Sunday Safe Bet
Critics loved it (91% on Rotten Tomatoes), though it had almost no lasting buzz and soft box office. A safe bet when you want something reliable.
Based on critics, audiences, awards, box office and buzz. Details below.Is it for you?
- Who'll love it
- Made for anyone who loves a strong drama. Critics rate it higher than audiences do, so it rewards patience more than it chases thrills.
- The mood
- Thoughtful and character-driven.
- The pace
- Takes its time with its characters, at 1 hr 28 min.
- What might put you off
- It's in Spanish, so expect subtitles (or a dub).
- Audiences were cooler on it than critics.
El Bola is a 12-year-old boy raised in a violent and sordid environment. Embarrassed by his family life, he avoids becoming close to classmates. The arrival of a new boy at school changes his attitude towards his classmates and friendship.
How it earned its rating
- CriticsVery strong
91% on Rotten Tomatoes
- AudiencesSolid
7.1 out of 10
- AwardsWeak
1 win and 1 nomination from smaller awards and festivals
- Box office & staying powerBelow par
$101K worldwide; still draws a steady audience long after release
- Buzz & cultural impactWeak
About 4K people sought it out in the past year
Trailer
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Cast & crew
Directed by Achero Mañas
- Juan José BallestaBola
- Pablo GalánAlfredo
- Manuel MorónMariano
- Alberto JiménezJosé
- Ana WagenerLaura
- Nieve de MedinaMarisa
- Gloria MuñozAurora
- Javier LagoAlfonso
- Soledad OsorioAbuela
- Omar MuñozJuan