Netflix has released the teaser trailer for its upcoming psychological thriller, Ballad of a Small Player, featuring Academy Award nominee Colin Farrell in the role of a compulsive gambler. The film is set to premiere in select theaters on October 15, 2023, before becoming available for streaming on Netflix starting October 29, 2023.
Directed by Edward Berg, known for his work on All Quiet on the Western Front, this adaptation is based on the 2014 novel by Lawrence Osborne. The screenplay was crafted by Rowan Joffe, recognized for his writing on 28 Weeks Later. Alongside Farrell, the film features a distinguished cast, including Tilda Swinton as Cynthia Blithe and Fala Chen in the role of Dao Ming.
The teaser trailer opens with Lord Doyle, played by Farrell, immersed in the vibrant yet perilous atmosphere of Macau’s casino floors. Although the trailer does not disclose extensive plot details, it portrays Doyle grappling with the consequences of his gambling addiction and the escalating debt that threatens to consume him. The atmosphere is tense, reflecting his struggle as he navigates a world filled with both allure and danger.
The official synopsis provides further insight into the film’s narrative arc: “Lord Doyle is laying low in Macau – spending his days and nights on the casino floors, drinking heavily and gambling what little money he has left. Struggling to keep up with his fast-rising debts, he is offered a lifeline by the mysterious Dao Ming, a casino employee with secrets of her own. However, in hot pursuit is Cynthia Blithe – a private investigator ready to confront Doyle with what he is running from. As Doyle tries to climb to salvation, the confines of reality start to close in.”
In addition to Farrell and Swinton, the film also stars Deanie Ip and Alex Jennings, adding depth to the ensemble cast. The anticipation around Ballad of a Small Player is building, not only for its star-studded cast but also for its exploration of themes related to addiction and the human condition.
As the release date approaches, audiences can expect a gripping tale that delves into the underbelly of gambling and the personal battles faced by those ensnared by their desires. The teaser offers just a glimpse into the psychological tension that awaits viewers.
For those eager to experience the film, mark your calendars for October 15 in theaters, followed closely by its streaming debut on Netflix two weeks later.
