Madrid, Spain – Spain has announced its official selection for the 2027 Academy Awards’ Best International Feature Film category, choosing ‘La Bola Negra,’ the latest work from filmmaking duo Javier Calvo and Javier Ambrossi. The film, affectionately attributed to “Los Javis,” marks Spain’s bid for the prestigious award.
Cannes Sensation and Festival Circuit
‘La Bola Negra’ first garnered significant attention as a breakout success at the Cannes Festival, where it sparked a competitive bidding war for distribution rights, ultimately won by Netflix, according to The Hollywood Reporter. Its journey continued onto the festival circuit, with its North American premiere at the 2026 Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), a detail noted by outlets such as Goshen News and Dayton Daily News. Penélope Cruz, a star in the film, notably commanded the red carpet at its TIFF premiere, as reported by the Daily Mail.
“La Bola Negra,” Javier Calvo and Javier Ambrossi’s Cannes Festival sensation, is Spain’s submission for the 2027 international feature film Academy Award.
The film’s selection for the Academy Awards comes on the heels of its strong international reception. Its Spanish title, translating to ‘The Black Ball,’ has been widely covered by national and international media outlets, including Demócrata and Diari ARA in Spain, and international publications like Variety and Deadline.
The Significance of 'Los Javis'
Javier Calvo and Javier Ambrossi, known collectively as “Los Javis,” have cultivated a reputation for creating compelling narratives. Their latest cinematic offering, ‘La Bola Negra,’ is a Spanish-language epic that has resonated with critics and audiences alike since its initial screenings. The duo's growing influence within the Spanish and international film landscape underscores the significance of this Oscar submission.
While specific plot details or themes were not widely elaborated in the reporting, the recurring mention of its epic scope and critical acclaim suggests a substantial and impactful cinematic experience. The film also notably features an appearance by Glenn Close, alongside Penélope Cruz, according to TheWrap, indicating a cast of considerable international renown.
Looking Ahead to the 99th Academy Awards
Spain's choice of ‘La Bola Negra’ positions it among a global array of submissions vying for a spot on the Academy's shortlist. The journey from national submission to potential nomination for the 99th Academy Awards is a rigorous one, requiring the film to navigate multiple rounds of judging by Academy members.
The selection reflects Spain’s continued commitment to showcasing its vibrant cinematic talent on the world stage. As the 2027 Oscars draw closer, all eyes will be on ‘La Bola Negra’ as it represents Spain in one of cinema’s most prestigious international competitions.
