Martin McDonagh Discusses His CIA Drama ‘Wild Horse Nine,’ Set in a Time When “Horrible People Had Intelligence”

The Venice Film Festival opened on a high note with the world premieres of two notable films: "Wild Horse Nine" and Werner Herzog's "Bucking Fastard." "Wild Horse Nine" is a dark CIA comedy directed by Martin McDonagh, starring Sam Rockwell and John Malkovich. The story follows the duo as they are sent to Easter Island just before the 1973 Chilean coup.

McDonagh's previous works, "Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri" and "The Banshees of Inisherin," both premiered at Venice and received multiple Oscar nominations, including Best Picture. It is highly anticipated that "Wild Horse Nine" could also be an awards contender, given McDonagh's successful track record.

On the other hand, "Bucking Fastard" is a mystery film directed by Werner Herzog, featuring Rooney Mara and Kate Mara as twin sisters with a physical and mental bond that draws public attention. Both "Wild Horse Nine" and "Bucking Fastard" are competing for the prestigious Golden Lion award at the festival, alongside Danny Boyle's "Ink" and the Gaza-focused documentary "NAZA." The final verdict will be announced by the Maggie Gyllenhaal-led jury during a ceremony on September 12.