El Bola Reviews

Though uniformly well acted, especially by young Ballesta and Galan (a first-time actor), writer/director Achero Manas's film is schematic and obvious.

Full Review | Original Score: 2.5/5

Deliberately and skillfully uses ambiguity to suggest possibilities which imbue the theme with added depth and resonance.

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As blunt as it is in depicting child abuse, El Bola is a movie steeped in an ambiguity that lends its conflicts a symbolic resonance.

Full Review | Original Score: 4/5

Although largely a heavy-handed indictment of parental failings ... the film retains ambiguities that make it well worth watching

Full Review | Original Score: B-

Not employing gimmicks or tipping off the nightmare to be faced,'El Bola' draws us in.

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A simple, but gritty and well-acted ensemble drama that encompasses a potent metaphor for a country still dealing with its fascist past.

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Never [sinks] into exploitation.

| Original Score: 3/4

Full Review | Original Score: 4/5

At once subtle and visceral, the film never succumbs to the trap of the maudlin or tearful, offering instead with its unflinching gaze a measure of faith in the future.

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Mana gives us compelling, damaged characters who we want to help -- or hurt.

Full Review | Original Score: 3/4

An exceptional film.

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