Belmonte (1995)
The true story of Juan Belmonte — a boy from Seville's margins who became a legend of the bullring.
Belmonte - Movie Information
- Release Year: 1995
- Directed by: Juan Sebastián Bollaín
- Type: Movie
- Runtime: 1h 44m
- Original Language: Spanish
- Spoken Languages: Spanish
- Release Date (Theatrical): May 5, 1995 (Spain)
Belmonte - Plot
Seville 1913. Juan is a weak-looking boy who has grown up in a marginal environment. But it transforms when at night it challenges bulls in fences. Calderón, an old bullfighter, looks at him, in his rare ways, in his passionate attitude, and guided by a strange obsession introduces Juan into the way of being a bullfighter. In a short time, Belmonte becomes a hero in his land, but his great challenge will be to face Joselito in the most important square: Madrid. Biographical film around one of the most emblematic bullfighters, Juan Belmonte.
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Belmonte - Cast & Crew
Director(s)
- Juan Sebastián Bollaín
Main Cast
- Achero Mañas
- Jesús Bonilla
- Lautaro Murúa
- Raúl Fraire
- Mónica Molina
- Jacqueline Arenal
- Enrique San Francisco
- Saturnino García
Belmonte - FAQs
What is Belmonte (1995) about?
Belmonte follows the extraordinary true story of Juan Belmonte, a scrappy kid from the margins of Seville who transforms himself into one of Spain's most celebrated bullfighters. Mentored by a veteran torero, he rises from clandestine night fights to the grandest arenas in Spain, culminating in a legendary showdown with rival Joselito in Madrid.
Is Belmonte based on a true story?
Yes, Belmonte is a biographical film rooted in real history. Juan Belmonte (1892–1962) was one of the most iconic matadors in Spanish history, credited with revolutionizing the art of bullfighting. His rivalry with Joselito is considered one of the defining chapters of early 20th-century Spanish culture.
Where can you watch Belmonte online?
You can check current streaming availability for Belmonte on JustWatch, which tracks all platforms offering the film in your region — whether for streaming, rental, or purchase. Availability may vary depending on your country.
Who plays Juan Belmonte in the 1995 film?
Achero Mañas takes on the lead role of Juan Belmonte. Mañas delivers a physically committed and emotionally charged performance, capturing the young bullfighter's raw intensity and unlikely charisma. He is supported by a strong ensemble including Jesús Bonilla, Lautaro Murúa, Mónica Molina, and Enrique San Francisco.
What is the rivalry between Belmonte and Joselito?
The rivalry between Juan Belmonte and Joselito — known as “La Edad de Oro” (The Golden Age) of bullfighting — was one of the most celebrated in Spanish sporting history. The two matadors dominated the corridas of the 1910s, pushing each other to extraordinary heights and captivating audiences across Spain.
Who directed Belmonte (1995)?
Belmonte was directed by Juan Sebastián Bollaín, a Spanish filmmaker who brings an intimate and atmospheric sensibility to this portrait of early 20th-century Andalusia. The film was released in Spain in May 1995.
What are some films similar to Belmonte?
If Belmonte appeals to you, consider exploring Blood and Sand (1941), Blancanieves (2012), and Matador (1986) — all films that engage with the world of bullfighting and Spanish culture. Afternoons of Solitude (2025) and The Heifer (1985) also offer compelling perspectives on the corrida tradition.
How long is the film Belmonte (1995)?
Belmonte runs for 1 hour and 44 minutes (104 minutes), giving the story enough room to trace Juan Belmonte's journey from his rough Sevillian childhood through his rise to national fame without overstaying its welcome.
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