Ballad of a Small Player is a 2025 psychological thriller directed by Edward Berger, adapted from Lawrence Osborne’s 2014 novel. The film stars Colin Farrell, Tilda Swinton, and Fala Chen.
The story follows Lord Doyle, a corrupt English lawyer and con man who flees to Macau with stolen money. There, he throws himself into the city’s casinos, determined to gamble away his fortune. But his past won’t let him go. Cynthia Blithe, a private investigator, pursues him relentlessly, while his encounter with Dao Ming, a mysterious casino worker, forces him to question his choices.
The film explores themes of greed, identity, and self-destruction, set against the neon-lit backdrop of Macau’s casinos.
Ballad of a Small Player will premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) on September 9, 2025, with screenings at Zurich Film Festival. It will release in U.S. theaters on October 15, 2025, in the UK & Ireland on October 17, 2025, and stream globally on Netflix starting October 29, 2025.
Ballad of a Small Player Age Rating
Ballad of a Small Player is rated R for language and suicide. The film contains mature material not suitable for younger viewers. Below is a spoiler-free breakdown of the content:
Violence & Peril
- The film contains moments of psychological tension and desperation.
- Suicide is an important theme in the story, with implications of self-harm and despair.
- There are no graphic scenes of violence, but the emotional weight is heavy.
Language
- Strong language is used throughout, especially during heated arguments and moments of frustration.
Mature Themes
- The story deals with corruption, guilt, gambling addiction, and existential dread.
- Themes of deception, loss of identity, and self-destruction are central.
- The atmosphere is dark and emotionally draining.
Is Ballad of a Small Player Suitable for Teens?
Ages 10–12: Not suitable. The themes of suicide, corruption, and despair are too mature for younger viewers.
Ages 13–15: Not recommended. The film’s heavy psychological tone, gambling themes, and discussions of suicide may be distressing.
Ages 16–17: Suitable for older teens who can handle mature themes. However, parents should be prepared to discuss the film’s darker elements, particularly its exploration of self-destruction.
Overall, Ballad of a Small Player is best suited for adults and mature older teens who can engage with its intense subject matter.
What Parents Can Do
Preview the Film: Watch it first if you’re unsure whether your teen is ready for its heavy themes.
Talk About Gambling & Despair: Use the film as a way to discuss gambling addiction, corruption, and the dangers of hopelessness.
Check Emotional Readiness: Make sure your teen can handle stories involving suicide and existential dread.
Official Trailer
FAQs
Q: What is the age rating for Ballad of a Small Player?
A: The film is rated R for language and suicide.
Q: Is Ballad of a Small Player appropriate for teens?
A: Only for older teens (16+) who can handle mature and heavy themes. It is primarily intended for adults.
Q: Does the film have graphic violence?
A: No. The tension is mostly psychological, but suicide and emotional despair play a major role.
Q: Where can I watch Ballad of a Small Player?
A: The film premieres at TIFF 2025, followed by limited theatrical releases in the U.S. and UK. It will be available on Netflix worldwide from October 29, 2025.