Some actors go above and beyond to bring their characters to life. And as casino movies go, this one looks like it will be intense.
Colin Farrell's preparation for his role in "Ballad of a Small Player" is a testament to the lengths some will go to achieve authenticity.
The film, based on Lawrence Osborne's 2014 novel, takes viewers into the glittering yet tumultuous world of gambling in Macau, often dubbed the "Las Vegas of Asia."
Casino games attract many celebrities who are captivated by the excitement. They often enjoy playing a variety of games, from poker to roulette.
Other actors and actresses will embody their role in a gambling film in different ways. Emile Hirsch revealed his love for poker (and painting poker scenes) while promoting his film "Dead Money." Now, even former NBA stars play table games while conducting interviews, like Iman Shumpert, on his podcast "No Limit."
Farrell found it crucial to grasp the mindset of a compulsive gambler, so he immersed himself in Macau's gambling scene.
Capturing Macau’s Distinct Energy
"Ballad of a Small Player," directed by Edward Berger, is a psychological drama set against the unique backdrop of Macau's casino world. The story follows Lord Doyle, played by Farrell, a British expatriate gambler on a quest that explores themes of luck, loss, and identity amid the city's dazzling yet isolating splendor.
To convincingly portray his character, Farrell lived (and played) in Macau's vibrant casino scene for eight weeks.
He stayed in the bustling heart of Macau's casino district, surrounded by the sensory overload of lights, sounds, and the perpetual hustle that defines the area.
This environment proved crucial in understanding his character's exhilarating yet destructive journey through addiction.
Farrell didn't just wander through the casinos; he engaged in casual gambling, not for the sake of winning, but to grasp the mindset of a compulsive gambler.
His focus was on experiencing the impulses and unpredictability that fuel gambling addiction. His character, Lord Doyle, finds himself entangled in games where luck reigns supreme, underscoring the chaos and futility of his gambling life.
Filming on Authentic Grounds
Shooting for the film took place in authentic locations in Macau and Hong Kong.
The film's crew used real casino resorts such as The Londoner Macao and Wynn Palace, capturing the genuine interiors and dynamic settings. Additional filming at other notable locations like Casino Lisboa and The Venetian Macao helped immerse audiences in the high-stakes atmosphere of the region.
By highlighting iconic skylines and landmarks like the Guia Lighthouse and Grand Lisboa, Berger offers viewers a glimpse into the opulence and allure that define Macau as the "Las Vegas of the East." The film seeks to balance the seductive glamour with the profound isolation felt by those caught in the throes of gambling addiction.
Under the direction of Edward Berger, the film showcases Macau's unique blend of modern architecture and cultural heritage.
A Testament to Method Acting
Farrell's preparation exemplifies method acting at its finest.
By blurring the lines between himself and his character, Farrell sought to capture the realism required to portray Lord Doyle authentically. His eight-week immersion allowed him to delve into both the glamor and the darker psychological aspects of Macau's casino culture.
As a result, audiences can expect to gain an authentic understanding of the isolation and obsession that accompany a life overshadowed by gambling addiction.
Through his dedication and commitment, Colin Farrell's portrayal of Lord Doyle is poised to be both captivating and enlightening, offering viewers a powerful look at the complexities of addiction and the search for meaning in opulent surroundings.
