Penélope Cruz plays Francoist cabaret singer in Los Javis' Cannes film 'La bola negra'
Penélope Cruz portrays Nené, a cupletista who performs for Francoist troops atop a tank during the Spanish Civil War in 'La bola negra', the latest film by Javier Calvo and Javier Ambrossi (Los Javis). The movie, which intertwines three stories of dissident love and the legacy of Federico García Lorca, premiered at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival. Cruz, who studied dance for years, dons a blonde wig and military costume to sing and dance in the role. The film has divided international press but captivated audiences with Cruz's performance. Many critics see it as a potential award contender at Cannes. Los Javis aim to bring historical and queer themes to younger generations through cinema, which they consider more effective than textbooks.
Key facts
- Penélope Cruz plays Nené, a cupletista, in 'La bola negra'.
- The film is directed by Javier Calvo and Javier Ambrossi (Los Javis).
- 'La bola negra' premiered at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival.
- Cruz's character performs for Francoist troops on a tank during the Spanish Civil War.
- The film explores dissident love and the memory of Federico García Lorca.
- Cruz studied dance for years and uses that training in the role.
- The film has divided international press but Cruz's performance is praised.
- Los Javis believe cinema can convey historical themes to new generations better than textbooks.
Entities
Artists
- Penélope Cruz
- Javier Calvo
- Javier Ambrossi
- Federico García Lorca
Institutions
- Festival de Cannes
Locations
- Cannes
- France