Mud Review

Mud: Matthew McConaughey plays the title character Mud, a drifter of sorts who is living in an old abandon boat that is actually stuck in a tree. The film is set in rural Arkansas along the Mississippi river. The setting and characters are so rich and interesting, you can't help but get involved in the tale. Two young boys stumble across Mud when they go to investigate the abandon boat themselves. An unlikely friendship is formed between the boys and the shifty stranger. After hearing Mud’s story explaining why he is living on this river island and avoiding town, the boys agree to help him get the boat fixed up for him to set sail. They also agree to help him track down his girlfriend played by Reese Witherspoon who is in town waiting to hear from Mud. She is not the only one looking for him however as there is a bounty on his head. The story reminded me of the great coming of age movie Stand By Me – which can only be a good thing. Like director Jeff Nichol’s past two films Take Shelter and Shotgun Stories the characters are so well written and so well played that you can’t help but care about them by the end of the film. In a time of movie sequels galore, I loved the unique story and setting. McConaughey continues the roll he is on with another outstanding performance. This is one of the best independent films of 2013! 

Rythemovieguy’s Grade: 3.5 Jaws

If this movie had parents they would be: Stand By Me & One Crazy Summer