Malkovich and Rockwell anchor McDonagh’s 1973 CIA drama

Key points

• The film is set in 1973, focusing on two CIA agents, Chris and Lee, on a trip to Easter Island before the military coup in Chile.
• John Malkovich plays Chris, a dying agent reflecting on his violent career, while Sam Rockwell plays his partner, Lee.
• Steve Buscemi portrays their boss, MJ, who monitors the agents' actions and investigates Chris's potential memoir.
• The narrative weaves in the historical context of the 1973 coup against President Salvador Allende and US involvement.
• Critics highlight the strong chemistry between Malkovich and Rockwell, describing their dynamic as a central 'love story' within the film.

Background

The film emerged as a top contender in the 2026 fall festival season, with earlier reports suggesting it was a leading candidate for the 2027 Academy Awards. It follows McDonagh’s previous works like 'The Banshees of Inisherin' and 'Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri,' which also explored male bonds and political themes. Parker Posey, who plays Lee’s wife, has recently discussed her career arc, including this role, in interviews.

How outlets are covering it

AP News emphasizes the film’s darkly comedic tone and the 'downbeat Western' metaphor, noting the acerbic dialogue and the actors' ability to elevate the material. The Financial Times focuses on Steve Buscemi’s performance as the cynical boss MJ, highlighting his career trajectory and his view of the film as a relationship story rather than a direct political allegory. The Mercury News centers on the creative partnership between McDonagh and Rockwell, detailing how the director wrote the role specifically for Rockwell and how the cast viewed the bond between the two male leads as a rare, tender depiction of male friendship. While AP notes the film’s cynicism, The Mercury News highlights the emotional depth and 'pure love' between the characters, and the FT underscores the historical backdrop of the 1973 coup without drawing direct parallels to current US foreign policy.

Why it matters

The film offers a critical examination of US foreign policy in the 1970s through the lens of personal relationships and moral decay. It serves as a significant entry in the 2027 Oscar race, showcasing the continued relevance of Martin McDonagh’s style and the enduring appeal of veteran actors like Malkovich, Rockwell, and Buscemi in high-profile dramatic roles.

What to watch

The film is scheduled for wide theatrical release on November 6, 2026. It is rated R for sexual references, pervasive language, drug use, and strong violence, with a runtime of 118 minutes. The film is expected to be a major contender in the upcoming awards season, particularly for acting categories.