How did a desperate man gain the attention of a weary nation? “Dead Man’s Wire” focuses on an abduction that quickly stirs a media frenzy. The film, which is based on a true story, skillfully addresses topics ranging from economic inequality to social constructs. ‘Wire’ hails from acclaimed director Gus Van Sant. This marks a major big-screen return for the filmmaker, whose last directorial effort was select episodes of the 2024 series “Feud.”
The film had its world premiere during the Venice Film Festival. Van Sant acknowledged the subject matter might be uncomfortable for some, noting this project was “both timely and uncomfortable” as part of his director’s statement. “I hope the film doesn’t cause too much distress, though I recognize that we are living in deeply troubling times — and perhaps some discomfort is inevitable.”
‘Wire’ features an exceptional cast that includes Bill Skarsgård, Dacre Montgomery, Colman Domingo, Cary Elwes, and Al Pacino. Skarsgård can currently be seen reprising the role of Pennywise on the HBO Max series “It: Welcome to Derry.” Two-time Academy Award nominee Domingo will be voicing The Cowardly Lion in the upcoming “Wicked: For Good.”
The film’s official synopsis:
Based on a true story, the 1977 kidnapping of a prominent banker grips the nation and turns the abductor into an outlaw folk hero. As the media frenzy peaks, the standoff becomes a spectacle of desperation, defiance and blurred justice, which resonates even today.
“Dead Man’s Wire” opens in select theaters on January 9, expanding nationwide on January 16. It will also have an awards qualifying run on December 12. Watch the new trailer below.
