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.
Colin Farrell hit the @thegrahamnortonshowofficial couch this weekend!
Farrell reveals a new haircut (!) and how he was initially reluctant to take accept his role in the classic IN BRUGES.
Watch now via 🔗︎ in bio!
One question that has haunted Ireland for decades ⚖️
In RE-CREATION, the new film from Jim Sheridan, the story is built on the real 1996 murder of Sophie Toscan Du Plantier, and Colm Meaney never hands you a verdict. The veteran actor trusts you to argue it out yourself 🎬
More details via 🔗︎ in bio!
“This is the Ireland I always believed existed.”
July 13, 1985. Two stadiums. One mission. Queen, U2, Bowie, Elton John, Madonna, McCartney, all on one day to fight famine in Ethiopia. And five Irish women who wanted to donate their wedding rings!
More details of Bob Geldof`s LATE LATE SHOW appearance via 🔗︎ in bio!
Let’s hear it for Jamie Dornan 👏
He’s back as an American career criminal, always one step ahead, in 12 12 12 on Apple TV, going toe to toe with Anthony Mackie in a cat-and-mouse game across Europe. And this time he’s also an executive producer, helping shape the story as well as starring in it.
NEW trailer via 🔗︎ in bio!
Andrew Scott and Olivia Colman looked adorable at the London Film Festival ELSINORE premiere!
Their biographical drama on actor Ian Charleson`s final performance opened the festival to rave reviews.
More details via 🔗︎ in bio!
🎸 RORY GALLAGHER IS COMING HOME TO THE BIG SCREEN 🎸
The world premiere of JOE BONAMASSA: THE SPIRIT OF RORY lands at the Cork International Film Festival this November, and it’s a love letter to the Ballyshannon-born, Cork-raised guitar legend who changed the sound of rock forever.
More details via 🔗︎ in bio!
⛳🍀 BILL MURRAY. IRELAND. NO PLAN 🍀⛳
The trailer for A COURSE CALLED IRELAND has landed, and it looks like the best kind of trouble.
Murray and author Tom Coyne tee off across some of Ireland’s most legendary golf courses - six episodes, north and south of the border, with plenty of wit, warmth and unscripted chaos.
Watch now via 🔗︎ in bio!
Don`t miss @scandalous_13 on the @willseeyounowshow!
The PEAKY BLINDERS, KIN and MOBLAND actor opens up about living with aphantasia, his complicated relationship with fear and the self-destructive impulses he works to keep under control.
Watch now via 🔗︎ in bio 🍀
Fifty years. One extraordinary career. And he keeps getting better 🎬
Don`t miss beloved #Belfast actor; Ciaran Hinds; in Netflix’s adaptation of John Steinbeck`s EAST OF EDEN.
Hinds re-unites with THE WONDER co-star, with the magnificent Florence Pugh!
Full details via 🔗︎ in bio.
