Guy Pearce Confirms Rupert Murdoch Approved His 'Ink' Portrayal at Venice

Key points

• Guy Pearce stated that Elisabeth Murdoch told him her father was 'very happy' about the casting, though Murdoch had not seen the film yet.
• The film opened the Venice Film Festival on September 2, 2026, and is competing for the Golden Lion.
• Danny Boyle noted that 'Ink' does not 'monsterize' Rupert Murdoch, contrasting it with common portrayals.
• Netflix acquired U.S. and Latin American rights, with a U.S. theatrical release on December 11, 2026, and streaming on January 8, 2027.
• Studiocanal is releasing the film in the U.K., France, Germany, Italy, and Australia, with dates in January 2027.

Background

Our archive from August and September 2026 confirmed that 'Ink' was set to open Venice and that Netflix had secured U.S. and Latin American rights. The film, based on James Graham’s 2017 play, had been in development with Studiocanal as the financier. Previous coverage noted the U.S. theatrical release date of December 11, 2026, and the streaming debut on January 8, 2027, aligning with the current reporting.

How outlets are covering it

Variety highlights the personal connection between Pearce and the Murdoch family, noting Elisabeth Murdoch’s praise. Deadline focuses on Boyle’s broader concerns about AI threatening journalism, framing 'Ink' as a defense of traditional press values. The Guardian’s review offers a critical perspective, describing the film as 'lurid' and 'unsubtle,' while praising Jack O’Connell’s performance but questioning the depth of Pearce’s portrayal. The outlets differ in emphasis: Variety and Deadline focus on industry and personal reactions, while The Guardian provides a critical artistic assessment.

Why it matters

The film’s premiere at Venice and the reported approval from Rupert Murdoch signal a significant cultural moment, as it offers a nuanced portrayal of a controversial media figure. The distribution deal with Netflix and Studiocanal ensures wide international reach, while Boyle’s comments on AI and journalism reflect ongoing debates about the future of media. The film’s competition for the Golden Lion adds prestige, potentially influencing its awards-season trajectory.

What to watch

The film is scheduled for U.S. theatrical release on December 11, 2026, followed by streaming on Netflix on January 8, 2027. International releases in the U.K., France, Germany, Italy, and Australia are set for early January 2027. The film’s performance at Venice and subsequent critical reception will likely influence its awards-season prospects, particularly for the Oscars.