Martin McDonagh on being scared of John Malkovich, the CIA and ‘Wild Horse Nine’

Martin McDonagh, the British-Irish writer-director known for his dark comedies such as "The Banshees of Inisherin," "In Bruges," and "Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri," has released his latest film "Wild Horse Nine." Starring John Malkovich and Sam Rockwell as CIA officers who worked on the 1973 coup in Chile, the movie has been praised for its wit, melancholy, and thought-provoking themes.

Set against the backdrop of Easter Island, the film explores regret, death, and the absurdity of life through the conversations of the two main characters, Chris and Chris' friend, who is dying of cancer.

McDonagh, who has previously used the odd couple dynamic in his films, found inspiration for "Wild Horse Nine" during a trip to Easter Island. He wanted to capture the cinematic essence of the location, which he saw as a perfect backdrop for his story. The film's director, McDonagh, says he feels travel and being removed from regular life help him think more cinematically, and he hopes that part of his next project will involve spending time in the South of France.

When asked about the film's relevance in today's world, McDonagh sees it as a commentary on America's darker side, particularly in light of recent events under the Trump administration. He believes that frankness about America's past actions is needed now more than ever, as history seems to be repeating itself in a more brazen and careless manner.

Sam Rockwell's performance as the CIA officer, who is eager to spill all the beans, is described as generous and heartfelt, even if his character's performance is less showy than some of Sam Rockwell's previous work. The film is set to be released on November 6 by Searchlight Pictures.