John Malkovich downplays Oscar buzz for new film "Wild Horse Nine" at Venice

John Malkovich told reporters at a Venice Film Festival press conference that he is not concerned about Oscar speculation surrounding his new film "Wild Horse Nine," and that his priority is the movie’s reception. The Martin McDonagh-directed dark comedy, which also stars Sam Rockwell, Steve Buscemi, Mariana di Girolamo, Ailín Salas and Parker Posey, follows two CIA officers dispatched to Easter Island in the 1970s.

When asked if he had begun drafting an acceptance speech, Malkovich said, "That is incredibly kind. I’ve had a long career, and I’ve had spectacular collaborations with writers, directors and actors. I never feel in competition with any of them. For me, it’s a very nice thing. But the nicest thing is the film getting attention. And the film has several terrific performers, and it’s beautifully written and directed. That’s what matters to me."

Director Martin McDonagh said the film is intended to "question authority and what we’re being told," adding that he wants to explore the CIA’s historical actions, which he feels are less examined than those of the KGB.

Malkovich described his and Rockwell’s characters as "two jackasses" and said accepting the role was straightforward, noting that he was free of scheduling conflicts when the script arrived.

"Wild Horse Nine" will compete for the Golden Lion and marks McDonagh’s return to the Lido after previous Venice premieres that led to Oscar nominations and wins. The 72-year-old actor also said he has no intention of retiring, stating, "I’ve been doing what I love my whole life. I plan to keep doing that. I don’t plan to retire because I think they’ll retire me when it’s time. That seems to be the natural course of things."