Directors Javier Calvo and Javier Ambrossi called actress Glenn Close during an Associated Press interview to discuss the success of their film "La Bola Negra".
The interaction highlights the critical reception of the project at one of the world's most prestigious cinema events. Because Close was absent from the red-carpet premiere, the directors used the live interview setting to ensure the actress was aware of the film's immediate impact on audiences.
The film premiered May 21, 2026 [3], during the 79th Cannes Film Festival [4]. The event was marked by a significant reception from the crowd, though reports on the exact duration of the applause vary. One report cited a 16-minute standing ovation [1], while another source said the ovation lasted 20 minutes [2].
Calvo and Ambrossi spoke with Close to share these details and convey the general enthusiasm surrounding the production. The directors' decision to call the actress mid-interview served as a bridge between the festival's high-energy atmosphere in France and the actress's remote location.
Throughout the festival, "La Bola Negra" has emerged as a focal point of discussion due to the length of its premiere applause. The directors said Close's contribution to the work was important, regardless of her physical presence at the Cannes venue.
“Directors Javier Calvo and Javier Ambrossi called actress Glenn Close during an Associated Press interview”
The discrepancy in reported ovation lengths—ranging from 16 to 20 minutes—suggests a highly emotional reception that is often difficult to quantify precisely in the moment. The public gesture by the directors to call Glenn Close underscores the film's momentum and the strategic importance of the actress's association with the project as it seeks international distribution and awards consideration.
