Netflix has released the first teaser for Ballad of a Small Player, a high-stakes psychological thriller directed by Edward Berger (All Quiet on the Western Front, Conclave) and based on Lawrence Osborne’s novel.
The teaser drops audiences into Colin Farrell’s twisted world as Lord Doyle—a down-on-his-luck gambler hiding out in Macau. The film hits select theaters on October 15, followed by its global streaming debut on October 29.
Teaser Trailer Highlights
Farrell’s Lord Doyle is seen spiraling through Macau’s neon-lit casino floors, drowning in despair and debts—portraying a visceral descent marked by chaotic visuals and sparse dialogue.
Fala Chen plays the enigmatic Dao Ming, who may offer Doyle a way out—while Tilda Swinton’s Cynthia Blithe, a private investigator, traipses closely behind, pursuing the truth.
The teaser hints at a kaleidoscopic, almost operatic tone: visually stylish, psychologically unsettling, and rich with emotional tension.
Cast & Production
Directed by Edward Berger, with a screenplay adapted by Rowan Joffé from Lawrence Osborne’s 2014 novel. Cinematography by James Friend, music by Volker Bertelmann.
A-List Cast: Stars Colin Farrell, Fala Chen, Tilda Swinton, Deanie Ip, Alex Jennings, and Jason Tobin.
Premieres & Release Schedule
- World Premiere: Toronto International Film Festival, September 9, 2025
- Limited Theatrical Release: U.S. on October 15, U.K. on October 17
- Netflix Streaming: Launches globally on October 29, 2025
