Werner Herzog unveiled his film ‘Bucking Fastard’ starring Rooney and Kate Mara at the Venice Film Festival, receiving a standing ovation.
Werner Herzog officially premiered his latest film, ‘Bucking Fastard,’ at the Venice Film Festival on September 3, 2026, as reported by The Hollywood Reporter. The film features sisters Rooney and Kate Mara in lead roles, showcasing their unique bond that allows them to speak in unison while sharing a love for the same man.
Upon the film's conclusion, Herzog displayed an emotional response, visibly moved as he received a standing ovation lasting six and a half minutes from the audience in Sala Grande. He wiped away tears and placed his hand over his heart during the reception, marking a strong connection with those in attendance. After the applause, Herzog bowed and blew kisses to the audience, underscoring the film's warm reception.
Describing the narrative, Mara characterized ‘Bucking Fastard’ as "quite beautiful and very unusual." The film centers on characters Jean and Joan Holbrooke, played by the Mara sisters, who face turmoil when their shared love, portrayed by Orlando Bloom, leaves them for another woman. This prompts the sisters to resort to unexpected measures, including random acts of crime, to win him back. Their journey leads them through chaotic events, including attempts to dig a tunnel through a mountain range in search of love.
In a previous interview, Kate Mara mentioned that while the original script called for them to portray identical twins, it was later changed to depict them as sisters. This alteration allowed the two actresses, both of whom are sisters in real life, to utilize their natural vocal similarities to effectively deliver lines in unison. Rooney Mara noted that their long history together significantly contributed to their performance, enabling them to find a rhythm that felt musical and effortless.
According to Herzog, the synergy between the sisters streamlined the usual rehearsal process, leading him to decide against extending their rehearsals. He praised their immediate connection and talent, stating that after five days of working together, he felt confident enough to shoot without further practice.
‘Bucking Fastard’ was directed by Herzog from his own screenplay, with production support from Ariel Leon Isacovitch and Agnes Chu. The film was shot in Ireland and is being handled for worldwide sales by HanWay Films. While audience excitement builds around the film after its premiere, details about its release beyond the festival circuit have yet to be made public.
The Venice Film Festival continues through September 12, 2026, concluding with an awards ceremony that will recognize standout films and performances. The festival opened on September 1, with recognitions for various filmmakers, including a lifetime achievement award for George Clooney.
The premiere of ‘Bucking Fastard’ marks another significant entry in Werner Herzog's storied career, following the director's unique storytelling style that has captivated audiences for decades. The strong reception at Venice, underscored by Herzog's emotional response, sets the stage for further accolades and discussions surrounding the film as the festival progresses.
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