Netflix moves the release of “La Bola Negra,” a Cannes-winning film by Javier Calvo and Javier Ambrossi (“Los Javis”), to broaden its theatrical run ahead of its Oscar campaign. Multiple outlets report that the streamer has advanced the theatrical opening to mid-October, with streaming beginning afterward.
Variety and Deadline say the film is now scheduled to open in theaters on October 16, following an earlier plan for a November 6 theatrical release. All sources agree that Netflix’s streaming release occurs in December. IndieWire reports that the streaming drop will follow a theatrical window of about 47 days, while Deadline describes the window as 46 days.
The outlets also characterize the movie as Federico García Lorca–inspired and describe it as a queer epic. Netflix’s decision is presented as a record change for the platform: Deadline and Variety state it gives “La Bola Negra” the longest theatrical window Netflix has used to date for a release. The adjustment aims to provide more time for audiences and awards consideration before the film becomes available on the streaming service.
