Movie No. 41 (2013): EL BOLA
El Bola (2000)
Director: Achero Manas
Cast: Juan Jose Ballesta, Pablo Galan
In Spanish, with English subtitles
The central character in this film is called El Bola (or "Pellet"), a 12-year-old boy who avoids close friendship with his classmates. Almost everyone in his school knows his father beats him but nobody, including him, wants to talk about it. Ironically, Pellet participates in a dangerous game that some of his classmates secretly and occasionally play at the train track. Then comes a new boy (Alfredo) in the class. Pellet and Alfredo, without much effort and resistance, become friends. Pellet finds refuge in Alfredo's family, which his father doesn't like.
Director: Achero Manas
Cast: Juan Jose Ballesta, Pablo Galan
In Spanish, with English subtitles
The central character in this film is called El Bola (or "Pellet"), a 12-year-old boy who avoids close friendship with his classmates. Almost everyone in his school knows his father beats him but nobody, including him, wants to talk about it. Ironically, Pellet participates in a dangerous game that some of his classmates secretly and occasionally play at the train track. Then comes a new boy (Alfredo) in the class. Pellet and Alfredo, without much effort and resistance, become friends. Pellet finds refuge in Alfredo's family, which his father doesn't like.
The film, at start, seems like a typical coming-of-age film, although one might be reminded of some Truffaut's films. Watching it, I was reminded particularly of 400 Blows and Small Change. But El Bola is not a copycat of these films. While the story is not unique, the way the build up of tension is presented is almost perfect - a great script. Juan Jose Ballesta (as Pellet) was either just perfect for the role or he's a very sensitive actor at a young age. One can really feel how broken his character is.
Date seen: February 9, 2013
Rating: 4.0/4.0
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