Story perspectives

Colin Farrell Stars in Netflix's 'Ballad of a Small Player'

8/20/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Netflix's psychological thriller "Ballad of a Small Player," directed by Edward Berger, features Colin Farrell as Lord Doyle, a gambler in Macau.
The film premieres in theaters on October 15, 2025, and will stream on Netflix starting October 29.
Tilda Swinton and Fala Chen co-star, with a screenplay adapted from Lawrence Osborne's novel.
The film debuts at the Toronto International Film Festival on September 9, 2025.
Edward Berger previously directed the Oscar-winning "All Quiet on the Western Front."

History

Historical Context

In 2007, the Macau government initiated the liberalization of its gaming industry, resulting in casino revenues skyrocketing to $45 billion by 2013. This transformation established Macau as a leading gambling hub, attracting global interest and inspiring Edward Berger's film "Ballad of a Small Player," which explores the allure and psychological complexities of high-stakes gambling environments.

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Story summary

Netflix's psychological thriller "Ballad of a Small Player," directed by Edward Berger, features Colin Farrell as Lord Doyle, a gambler in Macau.
The film premieres in theaters on October 15, 2025, and will stream on Netflix starting October 29.
Tilda Swinton and Fala Chen co-star, with a screenplay adapted from Lawrence Osborne's novel.
The film debuts at the Toronto International Film Festival on September 9, 2025.
Edward Berger previously directed the Oscar-winning "All Quiet on the Western Front."

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