Wild Horse Nine

Martin McDonagh’s will always be someone whose filmmaking I marvel at. His sharply funny yet dark dialogue conceives something so profound and thought provoking. Underneath its wittiness unveils an examination of loyalty, morality, guilt and the weight of a life that is built upon regrets and secrecy.

At its core is the melancholic bromance between Chris and Lee in the CIA, whose friendship is built upon betrayal, backstabbing and professional compromise. Their conversations are frequently hilarious, fuelled by unfiltered humour that generates such an infectious relationship and connection. McDonagh’s genius allows the comedy to step back when necessary, as Chris is coming to the end of his life with a threatening illness, he cannot remember whether he asked Lee to kill him, or if his memory is tarnished and had created that in his mind, which damages their relationship. The film delves deeper into the burdens that accumulate, explaining their lifetime of choices and moments of anguish, while trying to find absolution.

The emotional force comes with Chris who is searching for meaning, reflecting on regrets and wrongdoings that he feels should be punished. Chris raises questions whether forgiveness is deserved, adding religious aspects with the questioning of heaven. McDonagh’s usual but brilliant focus upon character developments and connections rather than grand declarations, allows questions to emerge more emotionally, making dark moments feel human and intimate.

The remote setting is an inspired choice to fit Chris’ inner turmoil. Easter Island’s isolated location increases the claustrophobic and intense thoughts, while contrasting with its striking landscapes. Ben Davis’ cinematography and Adam Glasman’s colour grading provides the atmosphere of a western CIA drama, allowing the island to feel both vast and restricting. John Malkovich and Sam Rockwell are fantastic screen partners. Their comedic timing and chemistry is infectious, making every interaction a treat to our eyes and ears, further allowing connection through hard-hitting moments that bring emotional depth towards the final act. Malkovich delivers a soulful and disarmingly innocent performance that is perfectly crafted for McDonagh’s script.

Beyond Wild Horse Nine’s central friendships, American history is examined, and shows how they overthrow democratic leaders, allowing the audience to ask whether individuals can separate themselves from the destructive actions of the government that they serve. It’s complex yet remarkable, darkly funny yet visceral and poignant. McDonagh has crafted another film that leaves you questioning and thinking long after the credits.