Mud: DVD Review

Mud: DVD Review

Rating: M
Released by Roadshow Home Entertainment

Matthew McConaughey continues to impress in this film from the man who brought us the wonderful Take Shelter.

When two boys, Ellis and Neckbone, cross a river to discover the truth about a boat found in a tree, the pair meet up with Mud (McConaughey) a drifter, who tells them he's waiting for his true love to show up so they can run off together.

But Mud needs the pair's help to get the boat going and to get things ready - soon, Ellis and Neckbone find themselves deep in Mud's world and questioning who's right or wrong in this love story.

Mud's a coming of age tale which quietly impresses, despite its somewhat bloated run time.

There are touches of Huck Finn/ Tom Sawyer aplenty in this Southern fried piece, which throws in a serious Reese Witherspoon for good measure. It's Ellis (Tye Sheridan) who anchors this tale as his innocence is shattered and his world view warped by those around him, but it's McConaughey who provides a solid presence as the enigmatic drifter on the run after what he claims is justifiable homicide.

Mud shows director Jeff Nichols is a force to be reckoned with - and while the tale has a sedentary pace in places, it's got a kick that's undeniable.

Rating: