Ballad of a Small Player has two real standouts: Colin Farrell’s performance, and, speaking as someone who loves light and colour, the bright neon visuals of Macau.

The truth is, within the first three minutes, I’d already googled ‘Is Macau worth visiting if you don’t gamble?’ The results said yes. But after watching what unfolds in director Edward Berger’s drama/mystery/thriller, I’d have to think a bit harder before booking my ticket.

What makes Ballad a tough watch for me is that it follows a high-stakes gambler who’s already on the decline. We’re essentially watching someone have a bad time in the middle of their gambling addiction, as they cling to the hope of one last big win.

There are a few amusing moments, but this is certainly not a comedy, and since I’m still in my ‘no dark, depressing films for me, please’ era, I can’t say I fully enjoyed the overall experience. That said, there’s no faulting Farrell or anyone in the cast, and the film looks fantastic, colour-wise. As such, if you’re not in the same era as me and darker themes don’t bother you as much, then feel free to give Ballad a chance. You might have a better time with it.

Happy Film Loving, 

G