I wasn’t a big fan of writer/director Martin McDonagh’s 2017 “Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri” (which won Frances McDormand and Sam Rockwell Oscars) and 2022 “The Banshees of Inisherin” (I couldn’t really get past the whole ‘cutting off his fingers’ storyline). But McDonagh’s new movie, “Wild Horse Nine”, is definitely stronger. If you liked the quiet deer scene in “Three Billboards” and the gorgeous Ireland scenery of “Banshees”, this time you’ll get quiet horse scenes and gorgeous Easter Island scenery.
You’ll also be treated to two excellent central performances. Rockwell is terrific as Lee, a CIA agent. The showcase work comes from John Malkovich as Chris, fellow agent and partner on their current, classified mission. It’s 1973. There are specific reasons why these two are on Easter Island, but getting into it will quickly lead to spoiler territory. All I’ll state is this: I’ve you’ve seen the trailers for “Wild Horse Nine” and think it’s a goofy, bumbling comedy, it is, but thankfully only for about 20 minutes. Malkovich and Rockwell have some quirky, profanity-filled comedic banter. And then the story opens up.
The way the screenplay morphs into a legitimate drama is highly satisfying. This is a character study of these two, who are both going through quite a lot. Their conversations change in tone and energy. There’s more mystery, intrigue and emotion behind what’s happening. The moves that “Wild Horse Nine” makes keep you invested right to the final frame. Steve Buscemi (as Chris and Lee’s boss) and Parker Posey (as Lee’s wife) don’t add much and actually detract from the core themes and momentum. It’s Mariana di Girolamo who has the standout supporting role as college student Monica.
“Wild Horse Nine” isn’t a perfect experience — it’s a tad long and a couple aspects could’ve been reworked. But it’s the kind of movie that should speak to audiences and awards season voters. Rockwell is having quite a 2026 with this, the brilliant “Good Luck, Have Fun, Don’t Die” and the title role in Brad Bird’s animated “Ray Gunn” (which I’m very much looking forward to seeing). And Malkovich is a lock for a Best Actor Oscar nomination and may even win (or at least receive the “Comedy” Golden Globe). Chris is a layered character, and Malkovich takes a delicate approach that’s quite moving.
LCJ GRADE: B-
Running Time: 118 min.