Particle.news
Download on the App Store
6 ARTICLES
·
3w ago

Early TIFF Reviews Praise Colin Farrell in Edward Berger’s Ballad of a Small Player, Flag the Film’s Overpowering Style

Early festival notices spotlight Berger’s sensory “pop opera” approach, with a limited Oct. 15 theatrical opening followed by a global Netflix debut Oct. 29.

Image
A still from 'The Ballad of a Small Player'
Image
'Ballad of a Small Player' cast spend time at Macau's baccarat tables, learning the wildly popular game that is key to the movie's plot

Overview

  • TIFF coverage notes standout work from Colin Farrell as Lord Doyle, a debt-ridden gambler navigating Macau’s casinos.
  • Edward Berger rejects the “psychological thriller” label, describing the film as a sensory “pop opera” focused on a descent and potential liberation from addiction.
  • Reviews commend the high-gloss craft from cinematographer James Friend and composer Volker Bertelmann while criticizing the aggressive sound and maximalist presentation.
  • The cast includes Tilda Swinton, Fala Chen, Deanie Ip, and Alex Jennings, with Chen and Swinton’s characters framing opposing forces in Doyle’s life.
  • Netflix confirms a staggered rollout: select theaters beginning Oct. 15 before streaming worldwide on Oct. 29.