While critics have been harder on Ballad of a Small Player than they were with Berger's last couple films, but I found it riveting. Most agree Farrell is outstanding here and he is. This is a tour de force performance for an actor who has been doing amazing work for some time now. But the film itself is gorgeous and emotionally powerful. If anything its one weakness is that the story feels a little common; we've seen it play out a number of times. But what Berger and Farrell bring to it makes up for that.
Berger captures a bold and striking vision of Macau that makes it feel like a magical dreamscape. He spirals his main character into moments of madness and depression that are exacerbated by the fantastic visuals. Berger merges the narrative, the environment, and the interior of the protagonist in ways that are delicious, delightful, and frightening. Small Player is extremely watchable even when it is difficult.
Farrell is as good as everyone is saying. But he's not alone. Chen is quietly profound and Ip is a terrifying delight. No suprises here but Swinton is, as always, an incredible presence. They all inhabit Berger's audacious vision so differently and yet so seamlessly.
So while the story may feel somewhat rote, what Berger and his cast led by Farrell do with it is remarkable and I felt very enjoyable.
Ballad of a Small Player
Starring: Colin Farrell, Tilda Swinton, Fala Chen, Deanie Ip, Alex Jennings
Director: Edward Berger
Writer: Rowan Joffé
