The intoxicating glow of a Macau casino table promises fortune but often delivers ruin. In the first gripping trailer for Netflix’s Ballad of a Small Player, Oscar-nominated actor Colin Farrell embodies this high-stakes duality as Lord Doyle, a gambler whose winning streak is eclipsed by a dangerous past and crushing debts. Directed by Edward Berger, fresh off his historic win for All Quiet on the Western Front, the film is a psychological descent into a world where every roll of the dice is a gamble with fate itself. This highly anticipated Colin Farrell Netflix thriller marks a powerful collaboration between one of cinema’s most compelling actors and one of its most acclaimed directors.

What is the Plot of Ballad of a Small Player?

Based on the novel by Lawrence Osborne, the narrative follows Lord Doyle, a man attempting to outrun his demons in the lavish, neon-drenched casinos of Macau. The teaser, released by Netflix, introduces Farrell’s character as the epitome of suave confidence, suited and seemingly in control. However, the facade quickly crumbles. The trailer masterfully juxtaposes high-stakes gambling, frantic chases, and moments of raw desperation, including a perilous jump from a hotel rooftop. As Doyle’s luck and composure fray, he encounters two pivotal figures who will dictate his future. The first is Dao Ming, a mysterious and intriguing casino employee played by Fala Chen, who may offer a path to redemption. The second is Cynthia Blithe, a relentless private investigator portrayed by Tilda Swinton, who forces him to confront the consequences he’s desperately evading.

A Creative Powerhouse Reunites for a Intimate Thriller

Director Edward Berger assembles a formidable team of collaborators to bring this tense story to life. He reteams with much of the Oscar-winning crew from All Quiet on the Western Front, ensuring a film of the highest technical caliber. This includes Academy Award-winning cinematographer James Friend, production designer Jonathan Houlding, and composer Volker Bertelmann. The screenplay is penned by Rowan Joffe (28 Weeks Later), adapting Osborne’s novel for the screen. Berger’s shift from the epic battlefields of World War I to the intimate, psychological battleground of a gambler’s mind demonstrates his remarkable range and cements his status as one of the most sought-after directors in global cinema, a fact highlighted in industry reports by Variety.

Where and When Can You Watch the New Colin Farrell Movie?

Ballad of a Small Player is set for a prestigious festival run ahead of its global debut. The film will first screen at the Toronto International Film Festival in September. It will then be featured at the Zurich Film Festival, where Colin Farrell himself will be honored with the Golden Icon Award for his outstanding contributions to cinema. For general audiences, Netflix has outlined a strategic release schedule. The film will premiere in theaters across the United States on October 15, followed by a cinematic release in the United Kingdom and Ireland on October 17. Finally, it will be available for streaming globally on the Netflix platform starting October 29.

For Colin Farrell, this role is another testament to his incredible versatility, following his recent Emmy-nominated turn in The Penguin. For audiences, Ballad of a Small Player is poised to be a masterclass in suspense—a gripping tale of risk, consequence, and the elusive chance at redemption, set against one of the world’s most mesmerizing backdrops. Mark your calendars for a October journey into the heart of Macau’s high-stakes underworld.

Must Know

Q: What is Ballad of a Small Player about?
A: It is a psychological thriller following Lord Doyle (Colin Farrell), a gambler in Macau whose life unravels as his debts and dark past catch up to him. His path crosses with a mysterious casino employee and a relentless private investigator, forcing him to confront his actions.

Q: Who is in the cast of Ballad of a Small Player?
A: The film stars Colin Farrell in the lead role. He is supported by Fala Chen (Shang-Chi) as Dao Ming and Tilda Swinton as investigator Cynthia Blithe. The cast also includes acclaimed actors Alex Jennings and Deanie Ip in supporting roles.

Q: Who directed the new Colin Farrell Netflix movie?
A: The film is directed by Edward Berger, the Oscar-winning director of the German-language war epic All Quiet on the Western Front. His follow-up film, Conclave, also received critical acclaim.

Q: Is Ballad of a Small Player based on a book?
A: Yes, the film is an adaptation of the novel of the same name by author Lawrence Osborne. The screenplay was written by Rowan Joffe, known for his work on 28 Weeks Later.

Q: When is the Ballad of a Small Player Netflix release date?
A: The film will begin streaming on Netflix globally on October 29, 2024. It will also have a limited theatrical release in the US starting October 15 and in the UK/Ireland starting October 17.

Q: Will the film be in theaters?
A: Yes, Netflix has scheduled a theatrical window before its streaming debut. It will be shown in select theaters in the United States starting October 15 and in the United Kingdom and Ireland starting October 17.