‘Wild Horse Nine’ Gets Rapturous 14-Minute Standing Ovation At Venice World Premiere

Martin McDonagh's first feature film in four years, Wild Horse Nine, premiered at the Venice Film Festival, receiving a rapturous 14-minute standing ovation in the Sala Grande. Set on Easter Island during the 1970s among Moai statues, the awards contender features a cast including John Malkovich, Sam Rockwell, Steve Buscemi, Tom Waits, and Parker Posey. McDonagh attended the screening alongside his lead actors, marking the first rapturous reception of the 2026 festival season.