The soundtrack is noted for effectively heightening the drama, though a few critics found it slightly overbearing.

Reviewers generally describe Ballon as a highly suspenseful, "edge-of-your-seat" thriller that effectively captures the oppressive atmosphere of the GDR and the constant threat of the Stasi.

: Director Michael "Bully" Herbig, primarily known for comedies, was widely complimented for his successful shift into gripping historical drama. Strengths and Weaknesses Reviewer Feedback Acting

Some reviewers felt the script relied on occasionally "showy" or "cliché" Hollywood tropes to manufacture extra suspense.