International cinema keeps its gaze fixed on the enchanted land of Rapa Nui, also known as Easter Island, which becomes an omnipresent protagonist, thanks to its captivating atmosphere and stunning setting. Location for the new dark comedy-thriller, Wild Horse Nine, by acclaimed director Martin McDonagh.

The British-Irish director Martin McDonagh is known for imbuing his works with a brutal and striking character, captivating the viewer with the savage irony that unfolds in life itself. Winner of four Golden Globes in 2017 for his film “Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri”, including Best Screenplay and Best Motion Dramatic Film, in addition to various BAFTA awards and an Oscar in 2005 for the short film “Six Shooter.”

Now it frames a major Hollywood production, spotlighting the fascinating country of Chile and its enigmatic locations, such as Santiago and the island of Rapa Nui. According to various interviews, McDonagh had visited the captivating island as a tourist a little over a decade ago, and had been deeply enthralled by its remote and desolate atmosphere ever since, just like the colossal presence of the giant stone heads known as Moai. From that moment on, he felt the need to tell a story that would unfold in tandem with its setting, not as an inert landscape or backdrop, but as a living protagonist within the narrative and the events that take place in.

Chile, 1973: two experienced CIA agents, Chris (John Malkovich) and Lee (Sam Rockwell), are sent from Santiago to Easter Island, ahead of the coup d'état against Salvador Allende. This highly anticipated dark comedy is set during a period of intense geopolitical tension in South America, exploring, and ironically questioning, foreign intervention, loyalty, and the regrets that come with a life spent in espionage.

The duo of agents will cross paths with two young, rebellious Chilean students, triggering a satirical dynamic that contrasts the Western perspective on the Cold War with the local, peaceful viewpoint of the Chilean community, causing the protagonists to question their true motivations as spies.

The cast also includes Chilean stars such as Mariana di Girolamo and Paola Gianini, who bring a local perspective, full of charm, grace, and freshness to the story, further solidifying their careers in international cinema.

This major production focuses on the United States’ techniques of foreign intervention and their influence on international politics to achieve highly questionable objectives. It creates a comedic tone while addressing sensitive topics concerning the most violent and turbulent period of Chile in the 20th century, through an exciting story filled with risks and absurd situations, set against stunning landscapes and environments.

The wonder that filled Martin McDonagh during his visit to the island stayed with him for many years, until having the opportunity to capture his admiration and sense of mystery for those inhospitable landscapes, which are filled with an enigmatic and equally fascinating atmosphere, like when he first beheld the grandeur of the Moai and their giant stone heads.

Filming began in February 2025, taking on the enormous challenge of shooting more than 3,700 kilometers away from the mainland, making it a true logistical achievement for the entire production team and all those involved, most notably the Ma’u Henua Indigenous Community, who manage and protect the Rapa Nui National Park.

For a little over three months, members of the Ma'u Henua community were present on a permanent basis throughout the entire filming on the island, due to the archaeological sensitivity of the area. Archaeologists and specialists also guided daily operations to respect and care for the ancestral territory, which has been recognized as a World Heritage Site since 1995.

Wild Horse Nine featured a wide and magnificent array of locations for filming its most memorable scenes, among its charms, they captured the beauty of Ahu Tongariki, the largest and best-preserved ceremonial center of the Rapa Nui culture, where the sun aligns perfectly with the horizon, casting the shadow of 15 colossal stone heads that turn their backs to the sea and face directly toward the imposing island.

Another confirmed location is the glorious Anakena Beach, world-famous for its white sand, tranquility, and for being surrounded by seven magnificent stone statues known as The Ahu Nau, characterized by wearing stone crowns. Surprisingly, the production team also ventured into the volcanic crater of Rano Raraku, which was the workshop for the creation of most of the Moai on the island, with approximately 400 of them located throughout the area at various stages of development, according to the University of Chile.

A crucial focal point for the representation of daily life on Easter Island in the 1970s was the main port and capital, Hanga Roa, which provides a more authentic sense of urban and communal life on the island. As a final touch among the extraordinary locations on Rapa Nui for the film Wild Horse Nine, there is Tahai, one of the oldest and best-preserved archaeological settlements in the area.

According to the expeditions carried out in 1968 by archaeologists William Mulloy and Gonzalo Figueroa, Tahai was one of the most populated settlements on the island, housing an estimated 75 to 200 inhabitants, in addition to serving as the burial place for the eternal rest of the last “Ariki Mau” or Supreme Chief, of the Rapa Nui people. A location imbued with profound cultural and historical significance for the entire Chilean people.

Additionally, locations in Santiago, the capital of Chile, were incorporated to lend greater authenticity and a local feel to the film. The film features iconic locations such as the Plaza de Armas with its magnificent panoramic view, the artistic Municipal Theatre of Santiago, and the Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport, and the heritage tavern, El Club de Rayuela El Olivo, a vibrant, lively spot popularly known as “El Disney”, a place unique in its traditional aesthetic, dedicated to the Chilean national sport: Rayuela.

Despite not yet reaching cinemas worldwide, although it is scheduled for release starting from November 6, Wild Horse Nine has already captured the attention and recognition of the most prestigious organizations in the world of cinema, with its exclusive premiere on September 3 at the 83rd Venice Film Festival.

Where McDonagh received the Silver Ship, an award for the most beloved duo by fans, with Chris and Lee as the winners at the Fanheart3 Awards, in addition to a nomination for the Golden Lion for Best Film. Meanwhile, actor John Malkovich, who plays Agent Chris, won the Volpi Cup for Best Actor.

The fervent anticipation is not limited to the film’s screening; Chile has experienced a major boost as a tourist destination, by featuring actual filming locations from the movie in their tours and trips. Positioning itself as a contemporary and attractive destination for film-related tourism, sharing the stage with countries like New Zealand, globally recognized for its tours of the actual filming locations from "The Lord of the Rings" saga, or the United States, with tours for film lovers in major cities featured in movies, such as Los Angeles, New York, and Miami.

Chile continues to grow as an ideal destination for international tourism, filled with landscapes, culture, and striking history. Likewise, its people and talents are reaching new horizons, such as Chilean actress María Di Girolamo, who, according to film critics, could be nominated for Best Supporting Actress at the 2027 Oscars.

Undoubtedly, Chile, along with Santiago and Rapa Nui, has captivated the new superproduction Wild Horse Nine, crafting an immersive narrative, with colossal settings and an ingenious, skillful, and highly charismatic cast, wonderful for bringing a story to life, that surely has much more to be discovered.

Travel to Chile and experience for yourself the awe-inspiring atmosphere of a country defined by the power of its nature, the charm of its people, and the wonders that accompany its vast and diverse culture, truly a destination that will leave a mark on your life.