A new film arrived on streaming this week, and it’s sparking conversation across social media as viewers weigh in on what turns out to be a visually stunning but narratively divisive experience. Directed by Edward Berger, the adaptation of Lawrence Osborne’s 2014 novel—itself hailed as a “masterpiece”—features a script by Rowan Joffé, known for his work on films like 28 WEEKS LATER and THE AMERICAN. At its center is Colin Farrell, delivering what many are calling an intensely captivating performance as a professional gambler known as Lord Doyle, a man spiraling through his days in Macao’s neon-lit gambling paradise, drowning in alcohol and debt until a mysterious kindred spirit appears, offering what might be his only chance at redemption.
Berger brings his signature visual artistry to the project, collaborating once again with cinematographer James Friend to create what’s undeniably a feast for the eyes—vibrant colors and neon-drenched frames that capture the intoxicating atmosphere of Macao’s streets and decadent casinos. The German director has built a reputation for transforming literary works into powerful cinema, with the Oscar-winning ALL QUIET ON THE WESTERN FRONT and CONCLAVE among his recent triumphs. Farrell, an Oscar-nominated actor celebrated for his work in IN BRUGES and THE PENGUIN, proves magnetic in the role, inhabiting Lord Doyle with an intensity that many viewers cite as the film’s primary draw.
Social media reactions have been enthusiastic about certain elements, with viewers praising what they see as brilliant storytelling and performances. One viewer posted that the film delivered “brilliant story, brilliant acting and great music. A must watch!” while another noted that “the main draw for this one will be the amazingly intense performance of Colin Farrell. The story did hold my interest and the Macau backdrop was beautiful. Very well made film overall.” Yet the critical reception tells a more complicated story, reflected in its 50 percent Rotten Tomatoes score. Critics have found themselves caught between admiration for the film’s stunning visual craft and Farrell’s compelling work, and frustration with what they perceive as narrative shortcomings. THE GUARDIAN awarded it three stars, while THE NEW YORK TIMES suggested it “contains a great story, but it’s bogged down by its trappings.” Perhaps most damning, THE IRISH INDEPENDENT described how the story “builds and builds before fizzling out in dreary, underwhelming fashion,” pointing to a fundamental disconnect between the film’s atmospheric promise and its ultimate delivery. What emerges is a film that dazzles the eye and showcases a powerhouse performance, yet struggles to fully realize the dramatic potential of its source material, leaving audiences divided over whether its artistry compensates for its storytelling stumbles.
BELFAST`s Jamie Dornan will host SNL UK this weekend.
Dornan, known for his role in FIFTY SHADES OF GREY and THE TOURIST, will front the program alongside Brit-award winning band Wolf Alice.
The show marks the first British incarnation of the sketch series, which was created by Lorne Michaels and first launched in the US in 1975.
Watch now at irishfilmtv.com.
In a brand-new interview, OUTLANDER star/executive producer, Caitríona Balfe, discusses THAT pivotal Season 8, Episode 3 scene where Claire saves a baby.
A must-watch for OUTLANDER fans!
More at irishfilmtv.com.
✨ Brendan Gleeson just reminded us why he`s one of the greats ✨
Yesterday at the London Standard Theatre Awards, Gleeson took the night for his performance in THE WEIR—and honestly? there`s no one else who could have done it quite like him.
This is an actor who doesn`t perform. he breathes into the role. he becomes it. soul-deep, nuanced, the kind of characterisation that makes you forget you`re watching acting at all.
More at irishfilmtv.com.
* THE IMMORTAL MAN now on Netflix *
This is not a spinoff. This is not a revival. This is Tommy Shelby`s final reckoning—the definitive end to one of the most captivating characters television has ever created.
The gypsy king`s last move is being made. Are you ready?
More PEAKY at irishfilmtv.com.
Fresh from his @iftaacademy LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD, Ciaran Hinds returns to Irish theatres in MIDWINTER BREAK.
Hinds and co-star, Leslie Mansville, deliver amazing performances - they move through this film with a kind of choreographed delicacy, two people who have built their relationship on a foundation of interlocking vulnerabilities and mutual evasions. In theatres tomorrow, Mar 20.
More info at irishfilmtv.com.
The best characters aren`t heroes. they`re human.
Andrew Scott doesn`t do safe. from the priest in FLEABAG to tom ripley`s calculated desperation, he chooses roles that make you uncomfortable—and that`s exactly why you can`t look away.
In a new @sxsw interview, Scott gets candid about his most famous roles!
Watch now at irishfilmtv.com.
Happy St. Patrick`s day everyone!☘️
Forget the green beer for a minute and grab your coziest blanket and dive into some of the best Irish movies to watch on St. Patrick`s Day 🎬✨
From epic adventures to heartfelt dramas, there`s something for everyone. Which one`s making your watchlist? 🍿
More at irishfilmtv.com.
She swept the Globes. She swept the BAFTAs. And last night, Jessie Buckley swept the Oscars — becoming the first Irish woman in 98 years of Academy history to win Best Actress 🍀
For a girl from Killarney who started on a TV talent show, this wasn`t just a win. It was a coronation.
More Jessie Buckley Oscar glory at irishfilmtv.com.
✨ From years of hopeful texts to the role of a lifetime ✨
Now he`s playing Cillian Murphy`s son in PEAKY BLINDERS: THE IMMORTAL MAN and audiences are absolutely losing it over his performance.
Barry Keoghan opens up about what it took to land this dream role, reuniting with Cillian (they bonded on DUNKIRK).
More at irishfilmtv.com.
