Filmmaker Edward Berger returns with his latest project, “Ballad of a Small Player,” which premiered on Netflix on October 29, 2023. Although Berger has recently received acclaim for his work on “All Quiet on the Western Front” and “Conclave,” this new film does not reach the same heights. While it presents an intriguing character study of a gambling addict, it struggles to deliver the suspense of a psychological thriller.
The film stars Colin Farrell as Lord Doyle, a high-stakes gambler who describes himself as “a high roller on a slippery slope.” Set against the vibrant backdrop of Macau, often dubbed the gambling capital of the universe, the film explores Doyle’s deteriorating circumstances as he grapples with mounting debts. The narrative begins with him facing a substantial debt of over 350,000 Hong Kong dollars, threatening to escalate into serious trouble if not resolved.
Doyle’s lavish yet chaotic lifestyle is evident from the outset. His luxurious suite at the Wynn Palace contrasts starkly with the disarray of empty alcohol bottles and impending financial ruin. The film captures the essence of high-stakes gambling through its visual storytelling, thanks to the collaboration with cinematographer James Friend, who previously worked with Berger on “All Quiet on the Western Front.”
After being denied further credit at the Wynn Palace, Doyle seeks refuge at the more modest Rainbow Casino, where he encounters the enigmatic Dao Ming, portrayed by Fala Chen. Despite the obvious risks, she offers him a line of credit, setting the stage for further misfortune. As Doyle’s luck continues to falter, he finds himself pursued by a determined private investigator, Cynthia Blithe, played by Tilda Swinton. Her icy demeanor adds tension to the narrative, as she represents the mounting pressure for Doyle to repay his debts.
Throughout the film, the Festival of the Hungry Ghost serves as a backdrop, symbolizing the darker aspects of Doyle’s journey. His interactions with Dao Ming create an atmosphere of fleeting hope, as he convinces himself that a turn of fortune is just around the corner. Yet, the film makes it clear that such optimism is likely misguided.
Despite the compelling elements of the plot, viewers may find it challenging to fully connect with Lord Doyle. Farrell’s performance, while commendable, does not quite reach the emotional depth necessary to engage the audience fully. This lack of connection might stem from the character’s complexity, which is not sufficiently explored throughout the film.
“Ballad of a Small Player” is based on the 2014 novel of the same name by Lawrence Osborne. The adaptation, penned by Rowan Joffe, does not provide the same richness as Berger’s previous films, leaving audiences wanting more. While the cinematography and setting capture the allure of Macau, the storytelling feels somewhat lacking in substance.
As the film concludes, it leaves viewers with a more satisfying ending than much of the preceding narrative, though this is not enough to warrant strong praise. “Ballad of a Small Player” ultimately presents an intriguing premise but fails to deliver a compelling thriller experience.
With a runtime of 1 hour and 42 minutes and an R rating for language and themes of suicide, the film offers a glimpse into the world of gambling addiction. While it may not resonate with all viewers, it provides a visually striking exploration of the highs and lows of a gambler’s life.
