Home / Arts and Entertainment / Gambling Addict's Redemption Saga Hits Netflix: 'Ballad of a Small Player' Divides Critics
Gambling Addict's Redemption Saga Hits Netflix: 'Ballad of a Small Player' Divides Critics
29 Oct
Summary
- Colin Farrell stars as a gambling addict in new psychological thriller
- Director Edward Berger's follow-up to acclaimed films Conclave and All Quiet on the Western Front
- Critics give mixed reviews, with some calling the film "garish" and "clichéd"
As of October 29, 2025, the psychological thriller "Ballad of a Small Player" has arrived on Netflix. Directed by Edward Berger, the film is his latest offering following the success of his previous works, the fictionalized look at the inner workings of choosing a new pope in "Conclave" and the acclaimed "All Quiet on the Western Front."
In "Ballad of a Small Player," Colin Farrell stars as a gambling addict who is offered a lifeline when it comes time to pay his debts. The film had a limited theatrical run before premiering on the streaming platform. As it hits Netflix, critics have shared their views on the movie.
While some praise Farrell's performance, the overall consensus is that the film falls short. Jacob Oller of AV Club gives it a C grade, describing the gambling fable as "garish" and "clichéd," with Farrell's character being underdeveloped. Other critics, such as Barry Levitt of Empire and David Ehrlich of IndieWire, echo similar sentiments, with Levitt calling the story "impenetrable" and Ehrlich stating that the movie is "defeated and desperate for a win."
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Despite the mixed reviews, the film does have some positive aspects, including its neon color palette, bold cinematography, and music. For those intrigued by the premise, "Ballad of a Small Player" is now available to stream on Netflix.
