4.5 stars: Reviewers praise 'Wild Horse Nine' emotional arc
McDonagh's new thriller, starring Rockwell and Malkovich as aging CIA agents, opens in theaters Nov. 6.
By Jabari Long ·
A WXIX-TV critic awarded Martin McDonagh's new film, Wild Horse Nine, a 4.5 out of 5 star rating this week. The review described the movie as a contemplative swan song that explores aging and memory within a comedic framework. The critic noted that the film's third act delivers a moving emotional impact that blindsides the audience.
The narrative follows Chris Carlisle and Lee Chesterfield, played by John Malkovich and Sam Rockwell respectively. These two CIA agents have operated together since the 1960s and 1970s. Their bureau chief, MJ, played by Steven Buscemi, tasks the pair with a mission in Easter Island. Only one of the agents knows the full scope of the assignment. The story introduces a dark unraveling plot as the duo navigates their new surroundings.
The film deviates from the typical McDonagh style of dry humor and rapid-fire banter. Instead, it emphasizes the psychological toll of a long career in intelligence work. The characters are portrayed as grizzled and self-serious, with unspoken tensions regarding their future partnership. The review highlighted scenes where Chris struggles with physical tasks, such as loading a gun, which serve as indicators of his advancing age.
Supporting roles add depth to the central dynamic. Tom Waits appears as Chris's brother Jim in a sequence described as one of the most memorable parts of the film. Parker Posey plays Marge, Lee's wife, in a small part consisting mainly of phone call conversations. Mariana di Girolamo and Ailin Salas play college students Monica and Alicia, whose presence complicates the protagonists' mission.
The production features cinematography by Ben Davis, which captures the physical setting of Easter Island. This visual backdrop contrasts with the internal psychologies of the main characters. Carter Burwell composed the atmospheric score. The review praised the script for balancing witty dialogue with dramatic weight, noting that the performances keep even outlandish lines grounded.
Searchlight Pictures will release Wild Horse Nine in theaters on Nov. 6. The critic stated that the film satisfies a craving for original cinema in an era dominated by sequels and reboots. The review concluded that the movie is a fun and tender journey that leaves viewers with a profound emotional resonance.
