The Rivals of Amziah King

Angelina LookingGlass was phenomenal - she stole the show. And Andrew Patterson, together with McConaughey and the cast, deliver a masterpiece.

The Rivals of Amziah King is set in the rural US South and fully embraces the culture and community of small southern towns. The lives and lifestyles are so different from urban living, that the movie can at times feel like a period piece.

The screenplay is uncomplicated and unburdened by gimmicks. The story unfolds naturally, and LookingGlass' character develops and matures before our eyes. By the end of the movie, she is, indeed, the new queen.

Flawless. Absolutely a lock as a Best Picture nominee. I can't wait to see it again.

Thank you, SxSW!

Rivals of Amziah King is an incredible film with stunning storytelling and a captivating soundtrack. Set against the backdrop of a lesser-explored part of America, it uncovers a world shrouded in mystery. The film's portrayal of complex characters and deep emotional moments draws viewers in, with Matthew McConaughey delivering a standout performance. The chemistry between the cast, combined with the beautiful cinematography, elevates this movie into a truly memorable cinematic experience. The acting and direction are both superb. Amazing music, beautiful cinematography, and good all around storytelling.

Written and directed by Andrew Patterson, The Rivals of Amziah King had its world premiere in Austin, Texas during the 2025 South by Southwest Film & TV Festival, which received a standing ovation. The film stars Mathew McConaughey, Angelina LookingGlass, Cole Sprouse, Owen Teague, Tony Revolori, and a special appearance from Kurt Russell.

This crime, thriller film has a well written storyline by Patterson, with plenty of comedic scenes that is set in a beautiful country backdrop. The film revolves around a group of country folks that are a fondly close community and have each other's back not just only in a time of need, but as a way of life - like gathering up to play some music, sing and enjoy some cold drinks - a unique form of relationship.

Despite McConaughey's 6 year acting absence, he delivered an exceptional performance as Amziah King, the beekeeper that operates the family honey farm and the former foster parent to Kateri. McConaughey did not miss a beat sharing his musical talents with the other cast members, turning up the jam sessions with catchy tunes.

Newcomer Angelina LookingGlass was a natural portraying the part of Kateri - the orphaned young lady who takes over her foster's struggling business and encounters some nasty rivals that want to control the honey market. Kateri finds that inner queen bee and takes action to protect the family honey business. Kateri can be sweet as honey but will not hesitate to lash out a lethal sting if you do her and her beloved community harm.

I was impressed with the overall performance. The connection between the cast was visible throughout the film, which kept the audience engaged. I did want to see more of Kurt Russell's character, however the choice of limiting his screen time did allow to focus on Kateri's story. I believe this wonderful independent film sets the tone for 2025 film makers and will truly be a buzz worthy of an Oscar nomination.

I just saw this movie tonight. It is THE best new movie I've seen in at least 15 years! It made me cry at the end,... and I NEVER CRY at fiction.

But this beautiful movie touched my heart with its music, show of love for each other, its humor, the cinamatography, the tenacity of the female lead, and the many things we can learn from bees. PLEASE go see it when it comes out. You will leave with a simple wonder in your soul as to how a movie like this was ever made in 2025. You WILL love it!

So much of this movie will ring true for any true community anywhere. No matter what country or community- it will hit your soul!

I saw this at the SXSW premier and it was the best film of the whole festival. I saw 12 film premiers and this was the only standing ovation I witnessed and it was well deserved. The story and characters were dynamic and music was interwoven into both making it feel more like Oh Brother than a musical. This is the best film Matthew has been a part of since Mud and I think it will get both he and Angelina LookingGlass supporting actor nods, the screenplay will get a best original nod and the score will get a nod...and win a few of these! It's been a long time since this many unique characters have arrived on screen at the same time and I'm here for it!