Phoebe Waller-Bridge commanded attention at the Venice Film Festival premiere of Martin McDonagh’s new film Wild Horse Nine, making a rare red-carpet appearance alongside the acclaimed director.
The 41-year-old actress and writer arrived in a custom Celine ensemble, pairing wide-legged trousers with a dramatic white cape. McDonagh, 56, kept his look understated in a black suit by the same fashion house.
Waller-Bridge also appeared to display a large diamond ring on her left hand as the couple posed for photographers, although neither has publicly confirmed any change in their relationship status.
The pair have been together since 2017 and prompted speculation about a possible wedding in 2023. They were seen smiling for the cameras and later joking together in matching black sunglasses.
Wild Horse Nine competes for Venice’s Golden Lion
McDonagh’s film marks his return to directing after The Banshees of Inisherin, his 2022 black comedy which received several Oscar nominations.
Set shortly before the 1973 Chilean coup, Wild Horse Nine follows CIA officers Chris and Lee, played by John Malkovich and Sam Rockwell, who are sent from Santiago to Easter Island by their bureau chief, MJ, portrayed by Steve Buscemi.
As the long-time colleagues confront their troubled pasts and become caught up in competing conspiracies, Chris forms an unexpected bond with two rebellious students. The relationship threatens to derail the pair’s mission on the remote island.
The 118-minute film is among the titles competing in the main Venezia 83 competition for the festival’s Golden Lion award. It also stars Parker Posey, with Tom Waits and Mariana Di Girolamo among the wider cast.
While McDonagh’s latest work provided the evening’s main cinematic focus, the red carpet also drew a high-profile fashion contingent.
Laura Dern and Leslie Bibb attended in glittering gowns, while Kendall Jenner opted for a vintage Giorgio Armani dress from the designer’s 1995 collection. Stella Maxwell chose a revealing black lace gown for the premiere.
Wild Horse Nine is due to receive a theatrical release on 6 November.
