Wild Horse Nine (2026) is the latest film in Martin McDonagh’s filmography, and the bleak comedy did not disappoint. First showed at the appropriate venue of the Venice International Film Festival in September, but was brought to cinemas in November. The film received a more than deserved thirteen minute standing ovation by the viewers during the festival, which brought John Malkovich to tears. McDonagh’s style speaks voluminously throughout the film as there are similarities to his Oscar nominated The Banshees of Inisherim (2022) and the BAFTA winner In Bruges (2008). Through discussions of whether cheese stems from being gay to the heart breaking ending, I had an absolute bawl during the film so come with me while I break down my personal favorite film of 2026!
John Malkovich’ s performance was the highlight of the wickedly funny film. His dozens of award nominations have totalled into a once in a lifetime performance as Chris, a terminally ill CIA, horse loving nuisance in McDonagh’s newest flick. People after seeing the film are becoming aware of the Oscar buzz surrounding the roll, as Malkovich charms his way through each scene he’s in, whether it be hilarious or gut wrenching. Malkovich’s surprising chemistry with a horse he takes a particular liking to, outlines many of the themes of the films. To quote Malkovich himself, ‘The horse represents freedom, in dreams they are beings that take out places you can’t normally go” His co-star and emotional anchor, Sam Rockwell as Lee- bounce off each other absurdly through conversations about strange polaroids or Arkansas. Rockwell furthers his already prestigious filmography with Wild Horse Nine, accompanying, Jojo Rabbit (2019), Iron Man 2 (2010), and most famously The Green Mile (1999).
The film, despite its giggle worthy moments, draws serious inspiration from tragic real world events.
SPOILERS AHEAD AND SENSITIVE CONTENT AHEAD
JFK’s assassination plays a major part during the film narrative as Chris is believed to have played a large role in his killing. The rifle that was used at the scene of the crime is coveted by the junkie head of the South American CIA, MJ- who is taken out with the very same rifle. 1973 Rapa Nui/ Easter Island is the setting for the majority of the film, but Santiago, Chile is a key focal point of discussion as the film narrates the months before the Chilean Coup of 1973, where tragically the military overthrew the democratic, socialist president Salvador Allende. The coup acts as a motif throughout the film that looms over the characters as Chris and Lee toil with the guilt they feel about the upcoming crime against humanity that they might’ve had a part in bringing to fruition.
Chris, Lee, MJ, and the Chilean student, Monica were all fictional characters created by Mcdonagh for the film, but there was a non-fictional character present in a blink and you’ll miss it moment during the films third act.
The folk singer at the bar Monica invited Chris real life folk singer, Víctor Jara, who was an established communist who was outspoken in his support of Salvador Allende. Jara was even appointed Allende’s cultural advisor for the few months he was president. Víctor Jara was one of many victims to the Chilean coup on September 11th 1973, his death was a contrast to the social justice he was so passionate about.
Despite the gloom surrounding the setting of the film, the witty comedy and star performances from Malkovich and Rockwell bring light to the tragedy that inspired the piece of art.
If you are going to see any film this month, I implore you to go see Wild Horse Nine.
And don’t worry, you don’t have to see the other eight Wild Horse films to enjoy 😉
