There are few genres Matthew McConaughey hasn't tried. He's covered historical drama (Amistad), sci-fi (Contact), slasher (Texas Chainsaw Massacre), war (U-571), comedies (EdTV) and action (Sahara) - and of course he got stuck into rom-coms last decade. More recently, though, he's been taking on serious roles with his performance in
Movie review: Mud

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Jacob Lofland (left), Matthew McConaughey and Tye Sheridan work together to escape bountyhunters in Mud.
For the most part it's a sweeter and gentler film, although more sinister themes based on vengeance and violence emerge in the final act. It's a fraction long and Nichols gets a little distracted by peripheral storylines, but the performances are uniformly excellent.
Sheridan and Lofland are superb as Ellis and Neckbone, easily delivering the breadth of emotion required of their roles. Their adventure brings to mind Stand By Me with a touch of Mark Twain, and Nichols' lingering shots of the natural world are comparable with the work of film-maker Terrence Malick.
McConaughey, too, is captivating, full of easy charm, nervous energy and a Southern drawl that sounds divine.
Complemented by excellent supporting actors, including Ray McKinnon and Sarah Paulson as Ellis' parents, Mud has a stellar cast. Nichols knows they'll do the heavy lifting for him, and his nuanced direction and thoughtful visuals lets them do exactly that.
Stars:
4/5
Cast:
Matthew McConaughey, Tye Sheridan, Reese Witherspoon
Director:
Jeff Nichols
Running time:
130 mins
Rating:
M
Verdict:
Fairy-tale romanticism and gritty reality make up this coming-of-age story
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- TimeOut