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Martin McDonagh is a director known for his style of blending dark, absurdist humor with dark situations. This style is on full display in his newest movie, “Wild Horse Nine.” “Wild Horse Nine” is largely a movie about moving on, what we did in life and what we leave behind. However, it never gets too caught in the weeds when it comes to both the humor and the melancholy of the situation.  

The humor in the movie is wonderful. There are so many great setups and payoffs to jokes (some that pay off nearly an hour after they’re set up) that had me and my theater laughing at so many of them. If you’re a fan of McDonagh’s humor in his previous work, you’ll love the usage of humor in this one. It never really takes away from any of the more serious moments, but it does work to help bring you closer to these characters, and show their connection they have.  

Outside of McDonagh’s consistently great humor, his direction shines here. His style lends itself to both the more harrowing, thrilling portions of the movie, and the scenes that showcase the beauty of Easter Island (or Rapa Nui, as it’s known indigenously) and its monuments. There are some beautiful shots that were a delight to see in Dolby, and that were paired very well with the narration playing over them. 

In terms of the actors, John Malkovich and Sam Rockwell are on the top of their game here. Their charisma and chemistry with each other are wonderful, and they immediately sell the connection their characters have. Their dynamic is really fun to watch, even with the sadder moments they share. You can tell they’re both having a great time, and that they’re comfortable with each other and their roles. The rest of the cast is bringing their A-game as well. The chemistry and comedic timing among the whole cast are great, and they all feel like real characters in this naturalistically absurd story.  

For those who are interested in Cold War-era history like myself, the movie has plenty for you. It takes place in 1973, and it has references to many different historical events from around the time. Alongside that, there are some great jokes about various historical events that were even better with the knowledge of their context.  

I really can’t sing this movie’s praises enough. Although it’s not my personal favorite release this year (that title would still belong to 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple) it’s one of my favorites for sure. It was such a great viewing experience, and such a heartfelt, genuine movie packed full of moments I won’t soon forget. I really loved it, and I’m rooting for its success, critically and financially.  

Ultimately, “Wild Horse Nine” is a funny, heartfelt and moving movie that I strongly urge everyone reading this to go see. It’s a wonderful ride of a movie.