Susan Granger’s review of “Mud” (Lionsgate/Roadside Attractions)
Working with cinematographer Adam Stone, writer/director Jeff Nichols (“Take Shelter,” “Shotgun Stories”) has fashioned a moody, meditative coming-of-age story set in a southern Arkansas delta.
When two intrepid, yet innocent 14 year-olds – Ellis (Tye Sheridan) and his best friend Neckbone (Jacob Lofland) – discover that the force of latest flood has left a boat lodged high in a tree on a deserted island, they’re ecstatic – until they suddenly realize it’s already been claimed by a wily, silver-tongued squatter wearing “Seven League boots” with crosses nailed into the heels and a snake tattoo coiled down his arm. He’s a ‘Wanted’ fugitive named Mud (Matthew McConaughey), who cleverly cajoles them into helping him repair the damaged vessel for a getaway on the Mississippi River with his beautiful, beloved girlfriend, Juniper (Reese Witherspoon), whom he says will be joining him – with vengeful bounty hunters in hot pursuit.
Since his squabbling parents (Sarah Paulson, Ray McKinnon) are contemplating divorce, which will mean the loss of the houseboat he’s always known as home, Ellis is emotionally vulnerable to likeable Mud’s mysterious superstitions and far-fetched stories about true love, particularly since he’s developed a crush on an older high-school girl, May Pearl (Bonnie Sturdivant), who barely notices him. And Neckbone’s been an orphan for years, raised by his uncle (Michael Shannon) who uses a homemade diving bell for oyster-diving. Gradually, however, both naïve boys learn to face danger, disappointment and disillusionment.
Fresh from Terence Malick’s “Tree of Life,” Tye Sheridan’s naturalistic performance propels the picture, projecting a watchful sensitivity far beyond his years. After starring in four films (“The Paperboy,” Magic Mike,” “Bernie,” “Killer Joe”) last year, Matthew McConaughey continues to ooze irresistible charm, explaining how he had to murder his girlfriend’s abusive ex-boyfriend. Sam Shepard appears briefly but convincingly, offering support for Mud, yet it’s a shame that Reese Witherspoon’s fickle, trampy part is so underwritten.
On the Granger Movie Gauge of 1 to 10, “Mud” is a sweet, subtle 7, an engaging, endearing adventure tracing its heart-warming antecedents to Mark Twain’s “Adventures of Huckleberry Finn.”
