The release of ‘Ballad of a Small Player’ on October 27, 2023, marks Netflix’s entry into the competitive landscape of award season films. Directed by Edward Berger, an Academy Award winner known for his previous works, this psychological thriller is based on the 2014 novel by Lawrence Osborne. Despite the film’s promising premise and notable cast, it struggles to deliver a cohesive and engaging narrative.
At first glance, the film seemed poised for success. Berger’s last two films, ‘All Quiet on the Western Front’ and ‘Conclave’, received critical acclaim and multiple awards. The trailer, featuring a dramatic score by Academy Award-winning composer Volker Bertelmann, hinted at a thrilling ride packed with tension and intrigue.
However, the final product diverges significantly from the trailer’s initial allure. In a surprising twist, the film reveals the true identity of Colin Farrell’s character, Lord Doyle, much later than the trailer suggests. This delay in disclosing key plot points hampers the film’s pacing, leaving viewers anticipating a thrill that never fully materializes. The revelation of Doyle’s true nature comes only halfway through the film, undermining the suspense that the trailer had effectively built.
Farrell’s portrayal of Lord Doyle/Mr. Reilly stands out as the film’s most compelling element. He seamlessly transitions between the sophisticated yet unraveling aristocrat and the desperate thief on the run. Despite his character’s questionable decisions, Farrell’s performance draws viewers into the emotional core of the story, particularly in the film’s climactic moments.
The supporting cast, including Tilda Swinton as the relentless private investigator Cynthia Blithe, appears underutilized. Blithe is introduced into the narrative too late, despite her pivotal role in chasing down Reilly for stolen money. Their interactions lack the necessary build-up, which diminishes the tension that ought to characterize their cat-and-mouse dynamic.
Throughout the film, the tone fluctuates between psychological thriller and action-packed suspense. It incorporates elements like hallucinations and dream sequences, but ultimately, the pacing and structure do not align with the intensity expected from a thriller of this nature. A climactic baccarat game in a Macau casino provides a moment of excitement, yet it is insufficient to salvage the film from its incoherent narrative.
While ‘Ballad of a Small Player’ showcases some gripping scenes and a strong performance from Farrell, it ultimately falls short of expectations. The film struggles to find its identity, leaving audiences wanting a more cohesive and engaging experience. As Netflix continues to expand its catalog, it remains to be seen how this film will be received in the competitive landscape of award-season contenders.
Viewers can stream ‘Ballad of a Small Player’ on Netflix now.
