Ballad of a Small Player – Netflix | Oct 29, 2025
Netflix’s Ballad of a Small Player is a suspenseful drama that explores fate, greed, and redemption in the glamorous yet shadowy world of Macau’s casinos. Directed by Edward Berger and based on Lawrence Osborne’s acclaimed novel, the film combines emotional tension with the thrill of high-stakes gambling.
Plot Overview
Lord Doyle, played by Colin Farrell, is a gambler running from his past. Once a wealthy man, he now hides in Macau, seeking refuge from his debts and broken life. While living in the city’s dazzling gambling scene, he meets Dao Ming, portrayed by Fala Chen—a mysterious woman who brings both hope and danger into his world.
Their connection deepens, but trouble follows when a private investigator appears, threatening to expose Doyle’s secrets. The arrival of Cynthia Blithe, played by Tilda Swinton, and Grandma, portrayed by Deanie Ip, complicates matters even more. The story unfolds as Doyle faces his past and struggles to find redemption before time runs out.
Cast and Crew
- Colin Farrell as Lord Doyle
- Fala Chen as Dao Ming
- Tilda Swinton as Cynthia Blithe
- Deanie Ip as Grandma
- Alex Jennings as Adrian Lippett
Directed by Edward Berger (All Quiet on the Western Front), the film’s screenplay is written by Rowan Joffé, known for crafting emotionally layered stories. The production houses Good Chaos, Nine Hours, and Stigma Films join forces to bring this intense adaptation to life.
Themes and Tone
The movie delves into human frailty, addiction, and the cost of deceit. It paints a haunting picture of Macau—a city of lights hiding deep loneliness and regret. Every gamble Doyle takes pushes him closer to self-destruction or salvation.
Why Watch It
Fans of emotional dramas with psychological depth will find Ballad of a Small Player compelling. The performances are powerful, the direction precise, and the cinematography beautifully captures Macau’s dual world of elegance and decay.
