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Colin Farrell’s ‘Ballad of a Small Player’ Debuts at Telluride to Strong Early Praise

Early Telluride reviews hail Colin Farrell’s flamboyant turn.

Overview

  • Edward Berger’s adaptation of Lawrence Osborne’s novel had its world premiere at the Telluride Film Festival, drawing praise for a bold, maximalist tone.
  • Colin Farrell stars as Lord Doyle, with supporting roles from Tilda Swinton and Fala Chen in a story set in Macau’s casino culture.
  • Netflix has set a staggered rollout with U.S. theaters on October 15, U.K. and Ireland on October 17, and global streaming on October 29.
  • Berger reunites with cinematographer James Friend for a first‑person aesthetic that uses handheld shooting on a 12mm fisheye lens, natural light in key scenes, and aggressive color to render Macau as an overpowering presence.
  • Coverage highlights craft choices including Volker Bertelmann’s score and a Bach cantata guiding a pivotal scene, while awards analysis points to potential recognition for Farrell and Rowan Joffé’s screenplay.