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Ballad of a Small Player’ Begins Brief Theatrical Run as Critics Applaud Farrell, Fault the Script

Early reviews highlight Colin Farrell’s magnetic lead turn during the film’s limited big-screen launch.

Overview

  • Netflix is rolling out the film in select theaters starting October 15, with streaming set for October 29.
  • Edward Berger directs the adaptation of Lawrence Osborne’s novel, reuniting with cinematographer James Friend and composer Volker Bertelmann.
  • Reviewers praise the neon-noir craft that renders Macau as a sensory antagonist and centers high-stakes baccarat.
  • Colin Farrell’s performance is widely cited as the movie’s standout strength.
  • Critics report thin thematic development and underused supporting roles for Tilda Swinton and Fala Chen, yielding an overall mixed reception.