The eagerly anticipated soundtrack for “La Bola Negra,” composed by Raül Refree, is scheduled for release on October 16 by Lakeshore Records. This soundtrack accompanies a film that adeptly weaves music into its narrative, enhancing the storytelling and emotional depth of the film.
About “La Bola Negra”
Directed by the creative duo Javier Calvo and Javier Ambrossi, collectively known as Los Javis, “La Bola Negra” draws inspiration from an unfinished play by famed Spanish playwright Federico García Lorca. The film features a star-studded cast including Guitarricadelafuente, Miguel Bernardeau, Carlos González, Milo Quifes, Lola Dueñas, Penélope Cruz, and Glenn Close. Spanning three generations, it highlights pivotal moments in Spanish history: in 1932, Carlos (portrayed by Milo Quifes) seeks belonging in a fractured society; in 1937, Sebastián (Guitarricadelafuente) finds unexpected connections amidst wartime divides; and in 2017, Alberto (González) uncovers a family secret that evokes the truths history sought to bury.
Scoring the Film
When composing the score for “La Bola Negra,” Refree aimed to create a timeless blend of orchestral and avant-garde sounds. His intense and evolving score is intricately tied to the characters rather than the timelines they inhabit. “Sebastián (Guitarricadelafuente) plays the trumpet, so his scenes rely heavily on the brass section. Carlos (Milo Quifes) plays the piano, so his music features piano alongside strings. Finally, Alberto’s (González) story, set in present day and marked by personal turmoil, leans more on silence,” Refree explains.
As the protagonists’ paths intertwine, the musical elements and styles begin to merge, culminating in the piece “Mira que nos acechan,” which embodies the notion that we are all interconnected.
Exclusive Previews of the Score
Among the exclusive previews from the film’s score is “En España Empieza a Amanecer.” This track plays during a critical moment towards the film’s climax, where Refree intended the music to hit hard, featuring the brass section in loud, staggered clusters that amplify the scene’s shocking developments. It evokes a haunting imagery of frightened prisoners led by aggressive soldiers, with rhythmic patterns from the strings signifying the dread of the situation. “The music itself gives voice to the prisoners’ fears,” Refree notes. A recurring melody introduced earlier emerges in this piece, underscoring the fragility of the characters’ experiences.
“Enfermería”
Described by Refree as one of his favorite pieces, “Enfermería” colorfully paints the scene where Sebastián first encounters Rafael. Opening with a serene musical landscape that suggests the mundanity of wartime life, the composition evolves into darker textures as Sebastián grapples with overwhelming emotions. The shift musically reflects his transition from peace to intense personal conflict.
The Release
La Bola Negra will premiere in New York City and Los Angeles on October 16, with further expansions to theaters throughout the United States and Canada. Select venues will showcase the film in 35mm. Following its theatrical release, “La Bola Negra” is set to debut on Netflix in the United States and Canada on December 2.
