Preview by Jon Donnis
Colin Farrell stars in Ballad of a Small Player, a tense, atmospheric story set in the bright lights and smoky corners of Macau's casinos. The film, directed by Edward Berger, known for All Quiet on the Western Front and Conclave, will open in select UK and Ireland cinemas on 17 October and arrive on Netflix on 29 October.
Farrell plays Lord Doyle, a man sinking under debt and heavy drinking. He spends his days and nights on the casino floors, gambling what little money he has left. His situation takes a turn when he meets Dao Ming, played by Fala Chen, a casino employee with her own secrets. She offers Doyle a chance at a way out, though it's never clear whether it is real help or another trap.
Adding pressure is Cynthia Blithe, a private investigator portrayed by Tilda Swinton, who is determined to confront Doyle over what he's been running from. As the chase tightens, Doyle struggles to stay in control and keep his grasp on reality.
The film also stars Deanie Ip and Alex Jennings, rounding out a strong cast. Rowan Joffe adapted the screenplay from Lawrence Osborne's novel The Ballad of a Small Player, giving the story its cinematic form.
With Berger directing, the film promises a stylish and intense exploration of risk, obsession and survival in a world that never slows down. Ballad of a Small Player hits cinemas in October before streaming on Netflix later in the month.
