Story, Cast and Release Date
About
Wild Horse Nine is an upcoming black comedy spy action thriller written and directed by Martin McDonagh. Set in Chile in 1973, shortly before the historic Chilean coup, the film follows two CIA agents sent on a secret mission from Santiago to the remote Easter Island.
The film features a notable ensemble cast, including John Malkovich, Sam Rockwell, Steve Buscemi, Tom Waits and Parker Posey. Blending espionage, dark humour, political tension and mystery, Wild Horse Nine explores the complicated relationship between two longtime CIA partners as their assignment takes an unexpected turn.
Key Details
- Movie Title: Wild Horse Nine
- Release Year: 2026
- Genre: Black Comedy, Spy, Action, Thriller
- Director: Martin McDonagh
- Writer: Martin McDonagh
- Release Date: November 6, 2026
- World Premiere: September 3, 2026, at the 83rd Venice International Film Festival
- Cast: John Malkovich, Sam Rockwell, Steve Buscemi, Tom Waits, Parker Posey, Mariana di Girolamo and Ailín Salas
- Production Countries: United Kingdom, United States and Chile
- Distributor: Searchlight Pictures
Wild Horse Nine – Story and Plot
Set shortly before the 1973 Chilean coup d’état, Wild Horse Nine follows CIA agents Chris and Lee, longtime partners with very different personalities. Bureau chief MJ assigns the two officers a secret mission that takes them from Santiago to Easter Island, a remote destination known for its iconic stone statues.
During their assignment, Chris and Lee find themselves confronting their troubled pasts, complicated relationships and emerging conspiracies. Their mission becomes increasingly unpredictable when Chris develops a connection with two rebellious students.
As personal loyalties and hidden agendas begin to collide, the agents’ journey to the isolated island turns into a dangerous and chaotic experience. The film combines political intrigue, espionage and dark comedy against the backdrop of a significant moment in Chilean history.
Cast and Characters
The film features an ensemble cast led by:
- John Malkovich
- Sam Rockwell
- Steve Buscemi
- Tom Waits
- Parker Posey
- Mariana di Girolamo
- Ailín Salas
Direction and Production
Martin McDonagh serves as both the writer and director of Wild Horse Nine. Known for combining dark comedy with compelling characters and dramatic storytelling, McDonagh brings his distinctive filmmaking approach to this spy thriller.
The film is a co-production between the United Kingdom, the United States and Chile. Searchlight Pictures is handling its theatrical release in the United Kingdom and the United States.
Release Date
Wild Horse Nine premiered in the main competition at the 83rd Venice International Film Festival on September 3, 2026. John Malkovich received the Volpi Cup for Best Actor for his performance in the film.
Following its festival premiere, the movie is scheduled for a theatrical release in the United Kingdom and the United States on November 6, 2026, through Searchlight Pictures.
What to Expect from Wild Horse Nine?
With Martin McDonagh directing an impressive cast, Wild Horse Nine brings together espionage, political tension and unconventional humour. Its 1973 Chilean setting and Easter Island backdrop add historical and visual interest to a story centred on two CIA agents facing personal and professional challenges.
The combination of John Malkovich and Sam Rockwell as longtime partners also gives the film an intriguing central dynamic.
Conclusion
Wild Horse Nine (2026) is a black comedy spy thriller that explores trust, conspiracy and complicated partnerships against the backdrop of Chile’s political history. With Martin McDonagh at the helm and performances from John Malkovich, Sam Rockwell and Steve Buscemi, the film is an interesting addition to the 2026 movie lineup.

