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Gus Van Sant’s ‘Dead Man’s Wire’ Opens in Theaters After Louisville Shoot

Early reviews spotlight Bill Skarsgård in a timely true-crime drama from the director’s return to features.

Overview

  • The film debuted in a limited theatrical release on January 16, following acquisition by Row K Entertainment.
  • Inspired by the 1977 Indianapolis standoff, the story centers on Tony Kiritsis taking a mortgage broker hostage with a shotgun rigged by a wire.
  • Bill Skarsgård leads the cast with Dacre Montgomery as the hostage, with Al Pacino, Colman Domingo, and Elwes portraying key supporting roles including negotiator Michael Grable.
  • Production was based in Louisville in January 2025, with noted downtown locations featured and Kentucky’s generous film tax incentives cited as a draw.
  • Coverage differs on where the film first screened in September 2025, with reports pointing to both Venice and Toronto, as early notices praise its relevance and performances.