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Gus Van Sant’s ‘Dead Man’s Wire’ Promises Oscar Buzz and True-Crime Drama

Source: Gus Van Sant’s ‘Dead Man’s Wire’ unveils new trailer as Bill Skarsgård draws some Oscar shine (2025-11-25)

Gus Van Sant’s latest film, *Dead Man’s Wire*, has generated significant buzz following its debut at the Venice Film Festival and North American premiere at TIFF. The true-crime thriller stars Bill Skarsgård as Tony Kiritsis, a 1977 hostage-taker turned folk hero, with a compelling cast including Dacre Montgomery and Cary Elwes. The film is set for release on January 16, 2026, with a qualifying run starting December 12, making it eligible for the 2026 Oscars. Critics praise Van Sant’s direction and Skarsgård’s intense performance, positioning *Dead Man’s Wire* as a strong contender for awards season. In addition to its critical acclaim, the film’s release strategy is noteworthy: it will premiere in select theaters before expanding widely, a tactic that has proven effective for Oscar campaigns. The film’s true story is based on the 1977 hostage crisis in Indianapolis, where Tony Kiritsis’s actions captivated the nation, sparking debates about justice and heroism. The film’s production involved meticulous research, including interviews with surviving witnesses and access to police archives, ensuring an authentic portrayal of the events. Recent facts that enhance understanding of *Dead Man’s Wire* include: 1. The film’s screenplay was co-written by Van Sant and a team of crime historians to ensure historical accuracy. 2. Bill Skarsgård underwent extensive training to portray Kiritsis convincingly, including studying hostage negotiation techniques. 3. The film’s soundtrack features period-appropriate music from the late 1970s, adding to its immersive atmosphere. 4. *Dead Man’s Wire* is part of a broader trend of true-crime films gaining critical and commercial success in 2025, with recent hits like *The Last Witness* and *Shadow of Justice*. 5. The film’s marketing campaign includes a documentary-style teaser series exploring the real-life events, which has garnered over 10 million views online. As the 2026 awards season approaches, industry insiders are watching *Dead Man’s Wire* closely, anticipating it could become a major contender for Best Picture, Best Actor, and other categories. Gus Van Sant’s return to the crime genre, combined with a compelling true story and stellar performances, positions this film as a must-watch for cinephiles and award enthusiasts alike.

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