15th May 2024 – (Los Angeles) Fala Chen, known for her roles in “The New Empire,” “Shang Chi: And The Legend Of The Ten Rings,” and TV series such as “Irma Vep” and “The Undoing,” is set to star alongside Colin Farrell and Tilda Swinton in the upcoming Netflix film “The Ballad of a Small Player.” The movie, directed by Ed Berger, tells the story of a high-stakes gambler who finds himself seeking refuge in Macau as his troubled past and mounting debts catch up with him. During his journey, he encounters a kindred spirit who may hold the key to his redemption. Production for the film is scheduled to begin in Asia this summer.
The screenplay for “The Ballad of a Small Player” is based on the novel of the same name by Lawrence Osborne, with Rowan Joffe handling the adaptation. The project is the first to emerge from Ed Berger’s creative collaboration and global first-look film deal with Netflix, facilitated through his company Nine Hours. Mike Goodridge, through his banner Good Chaos, will produce the film alongside Berger for Nine Hours and Matthew James Wilkinson for Stigma Films.
Fala Chen’s addition to the cast further solidifies the star-studded lineup of this highly anticipated production. Chen has garnered recognition for her performances in various TVB drama series and Hong Kong films, including “Steps,” “No Regrets,” “Triumph in the Skies II,” “Tales from the Dark 2,” and “Turning Point.” She also made her mark in Hollywood with her appearance in the HBO miniseries “The Undoing” in 2020 and her role in the Marvel Cinematic Universe blockbuster “Shang Chi: And The Legend Of The Ten Rings” in 2021.
With her diverse and impressive range of acting credits, Fala Chen brings a wealth of talent and experience to “The Ballad of a Small Player.” Her involvement in this intriguing tale of chance, redemption, and self-discovery is sure to captivate audiences worldwide.
Beyond her professional achievements, Fala Chen’s personal life has also seen significant milestones. In 2019, she married French entrepreneur Emmanuel Straschnov, and in February 2021, the couple announced the birth of their daughter. Chen later shared on Instagram in March 2024 that she has given birth to a son, adding to the joy and blessings in her growing family.