Writer/Director Martin McDonagh (The Banshees of Inisherin) has made a remarkable film, Wild Horse Nine, a drama/black comedy that features some outstanding performances.
In
1973, Chile has elected a new leader, and two CIA agents, Chris (John Malkovich)
and Lee (Sam Rockwell), visit Easter Island before setting out to destabilize
the Chilean government. They encounter
two female students, and Chris openly admits to being a CIA operative. Chris,
a long-time associate of the younger Lee, has no filter and not only has apparent
memory issues, but is coming to terms with his own mortality. Moreover, the CIA bureau chief, MJ (Steve
Buscemi), thinks Chris is a problem that needs to be removed. As truths are
revealed and a bond is tested, it leads to a dramatic finale among the statues
and wild horses of Easter Island.
This
is a wonderful film with a sharp script augmented with witty, outrageous dialogue.
It all works due to a talented cast led by a masterful performance from
Malkovich who is superbly complemented by Rockwell. It doesn’t get much
better than their interplay which alludes to a relationship that spans the
years and hints of an unsavory past with covert operations in other countries imparting
the narrative with an ominous tone. Moreover,
the film adds a layer of intrigue by referencing a connection between Chris and
deep secrets like the Kennedy assassination.
The story makes good use of Easter Island as a beautifully shot backdrop
with its iconic head statues and wild horses, one of which serves as a symbolic
metaphor.
There
is not one scene that lags in pace or engagement; it’s a lean, well-constructed
film with a soul. With a wild, poignant ending, it’s one of the year’s
best and certain to receive major awards consideration.
*****
of ***** stars
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