John Malkovich Fights Back Tears in Venice

John Malkovich struggled to hold back tears in Venice after Wild Horse Nine received a 13-minute standing ovation. The audience laughed throughout the film, then rose when the lights came up to applaud the cast and crew.

The 72-year-old actor appeared visibly moved as the applause continued. Festival footage showed him speaking and laughing with Sam Rockwell while the crowd celebrated the performers and filmmakers.

Wild Horse Nine is the latest film from Irish director and screenwriter Martin McDonagh. Malkovich and Rockwell lead the cast. The warm reception has already fueled discussion of Malkovich's performance in connection with the next Academy Awards.

The premiere drew several familiar faces, including Parker Posey, Steve Buscemi, Mariana Di Girolamo and Ailín Salas. McDonagh attended with his partner, actor and screenwriter Phoebe Waller-Bridge, while Leslie Bibb, Rockwell's partner, was also among the guests.

Earlier that day, Malkovich discussed his future at a news conference. Despite a career spanning decades and two Oscar nominations, he said he had no intention of retiring. He said he had been fortunate to spend almost his entire life doing what he loved and expected to continue until the film industry decided it was time to stop.