Matthew McConaughey is making his return to the big screen after a long break from acting. Today, March 10, 2025, marks the premiere of his new film “The Rivals of Amziah King” at SXSW. This British crime thriller represents McConaughey’s first live-action role since 2019, ending his six-year hiatus from major acting projects. The film had its world premiere at the 2025 South by Southwest Film & TV Festival on March 10, 2025.
The film, directed by Andrew Patterson, features an impressive cast including Kurt Russell, Cole Sprouse, and Owen Teague. McConaughey shares the spotlight with newcomer Angelina LookingGlass in this drama produced by Black Bear Pictures and Heyday Films. The story follows a character named Kateri who experiences the loss of her mother.
Fans of McConaughey have been eagerly awaiting his return to acting. His choice to come back with a crime thriller shows his continued interest in dramatic roles that challenged him during his “McConaissance” period. This film adds to his diverse portfolio of work that spans comedies, dramas, and thrillers.
A Triumphant Return to the Big Screen
After a six-year hiatus from live-action roles, Matthew McConaughey has returned in full force with The Rivals of Amziah King, a gritty and atmospheric British crime thriller that’s already generating serious buzz. Premiering at this year’s SXSW Film & TV Festival in Austin, Texas, the film marks not just McConaughey’s return to acting, but a bold new chapter in his career.
McConaughey, known for his charismatic presence and versatile performances, steps into the role of Amziah King, a rugged honey farmer in rural Oklahoma. On the surface, King is a quiet man living a simple life, but beneath that stoic exterior lies a man with a complicated past and a dangerous world closing in around him.
A Story of Secrets and Survival
The Rivals of Amziah King dives deep into the underbelly of small-town crime, weaving a suspenseful tale of rivalry, betrayal, and redemption. McConaughey’s character finds himself entangled in a bitter feud over the region’s lucrative honey trade—an unusual yet compelling premise that sets this film apart from your standard crime thriller. As old enemies surface and new threats emerge, King is forced to confront not only his foes but his own demons in a battle for survival.
The film’s director, Andrew Patterson—best known for his breakout indie hit The Vast of Night—brings his signature storytelling style to the project. With haunting cinematography and an eerie, slow-burning tension, Patterson crafts a world that’s as beautiful as it is brutal.
A Stellar Cast Joins McConaughey
While McConaughey leads the charge, the supporting cast adds further weight to the film’s dramatic pull. Hollywood veteran Kurt Russell brings gravitas as a rival beekeeper with a murky agenda, while rising star Owen Teague delivers a standout performance as King’s estranged foster daughter’s new protector. Cole Sprouse, Scott Shepherd, Rob Morgan, and Tony Revolori round out the ensemble, each adding complexity to a story teeming with shifting alliances and buried secrets.
Behind the Scenes: A Passion Reignited
Filming for The Rivals of Amziah King took place over the summer of 2023 in Alabama, with locations ranging from the rural backroads of Jasper to the industrial edges of Birmingham. The Southern Gothic atmosphere of these settings lends authenticity and an ominous tone to the story.
For McConaughey, this project wasn’t just another role—it was a personal revival. In recent interviews, he shared how stepping back onto a film set reignited his passion for acting. “I remembered how much I truly enjoy performing,” McConaughey said. “I realized again why I started this journey in the first place.”
During his time away from Hollywood, McConaughey focused on his family, penned his bestselling memoir Greenlights, and lent his voice to animated hits like Sing 2. But with The Rivals of Amziah King, he’s back in his element—and fans couldn’t be happier.
Early Buzz and What’s Next
The premiere at SXSW has already sparked conversations among critics and audiences alike. Early reactions praise McConaughey’s nuanced portrayal and Patterson’s masterful direction. There’s a palpable sense that The Rivals of Amziah King could be a major player in this year’s awards season.
As for McConaughey, he seems more energized than ever. With this comeback performance under his belt, fans are eager to see where his career heads next. One thing’s for sure: the King is back—and he’s reclaiming his throne.
The Rivals of Amziah King doesn’t have a wide release date yet, but given its early reception, it’s only a matter of time before this crime thriller makes its way to theaters and streaming platforms worldwide.
Key Takeaways
- Matthew McConaughey returns to acting after six years with the British crime thriller “The Rivals of Amziah King” premiering at SXSW.
- The film is directed by Andrew Patterson and features an impressive cast including Kurt Russell and newcomer Angelina LookingGlass.
- This marks McConaughey’s first live-action role since 2019, signaling a potential new chapter in his acting career.
About ‘The Rivals of Amziah King’
‘The Rivals of Amziah King’ is a 2025 British crime thriller that marks Matthew McConaughey’s return to live-action films after a hiatus since 2019. The film combines intense storytelling with compelling characters in a crime-centered narrative.
Plot and Setting
The film follows the story of Kateri, a young woman who loses her mother and exits the foster care system. She reconnects with her former foster parent Amziah King, played by McConaughey. As their relationship develops, Amziah mentors Kateri and helps uncover her hidden talents and abilities.
The narrative takes a dramatic turn when Kateri faces a devastating situation that tests her relationship with Amziah. The crime thriller appears to explore themes of loyalty, mentorship, and survival.
Set in what’s described as the “Magic City,” the film was shot in 2023. This urban backdrop provides a gritty canvas for the intense character dynamics and criminal elements that unfold throughout the story.
Cast and Characters
Matthew McConaughey leads the cast as Amziah King, marking his first live-action role since 2019. The Oscar-winning actor brings his signature intensity to this mentor character who guides a troubled young woman.
The film features an impressive supporting cast including Kurt Russell, Cole Sprouse, Owen Teague, Tony Revolori, and Jake Horowitz. Each actor brings depth to the crime thriller’s complex narrative.
While specific character details remain limited, the story centers on the relationship between Amziah and Kateri. Their connection as former foster parent and child creates a unique dynamic as they navigate criminal elements and personal challenges.
Creative Team
The film is written and directed by Andrew Patterson, who appears to be making his mark with this high-profile crime thriller. Patterson’s vision brings together established stars with an intriguing narrative.
Production companies Black Bear Pictures and Heyday Films backed the project. These studios have developed a reputation for supporting quality independent films with commercial appeal.
‘The Rivals of Amziah King’ premiered at the SXSW Film Festival on March 10, 2025. This prestigious festival launch suggests confidence in the film’s quality and commercial potential.
Filming took place in 2023, with the production team transforming the “Magic City” into the backdrop for this British crime thriller. The film represents a significant addition to the crime thriller genre with its talented cast and creative team.
Behind the Scenes Insights
The filming of “The Rivals of Amziah King” took place primarily in Central Alabama despite being set in Oklahoma, creating an authentic backdrop for this British crime thriller that marks McConaughey’s return to acting.
Production Notes
While “The Rivals of Amziah King” is set in Oklahoma, the production team chose to film in Central Alabama. This location decision helped create the right atmosphere for the British crime thriller while keeping production costs manageable.
The film features Matthew McConaughey in the titular role, working alongside newcomer Angelina LookingGlass and actor Cole in supporting roles. Their on-screen chemistry has been noted as one of the film’s strengths.
Principal photography wrapped just in time for the movie’s debut at SXSW on March 10, 2025. The production team faced several challenges with weather conditions during filming, but creative cinematography turned these obstacles into visual opportunities.
Matthew McConaughey’s Career
McConaughey’s appearance in “The Rivals of Amziah King” marks the end of his six-year hiatus from live-action roles. His last major appearance was in 2019, after which he focused on other projects including writing his memoir “Greenlights.”
During his time away from acting, McConaughey explored different creative avenues while being selective about potential comeback roles. The actor has mentioned in recent interviews that this role felt like the right opportunity to return to the screen.
Prior to his break, McConaughey had established himself as a versatile performer with roles ranging from romantic comedies to intense dramas like “True Detective.” His return has generated significant buzz in Hollywood, with many critics eager to see if he brings new depth to his performance after his time away.
Frequently Asked Questions
As Matthew McConaughey returns to the big screen, viewers have many questions about his new film. Here are answers to the most common inquiries about ‘The Rivals of Amziah King’.
When will ‘The Rivals of Amziah King’ be released?
‘The Rivals of Amziah King’ is being released today, March 10, 2025. The film debuts at the SXSW festival, marking McConaughey’s return to live-action roles after a six-year hiatus from acting.
The nationwide theatrical release will follow the festival premiere, giving audiences across the country a chance to see the film.
Which streaming services will show ‘The Rivals of Amziah King’?
Following its theatrical run, ‘The Rivals of Amziah King’ is expected to appear on major streaming platforms. While exact streaming deals haven’t been announced yet, industry insiders suggest it may land on Netflix or Amazon Prime.
The film’s production company typically partners with multiple streaming services, so viewers will likely have several options in the months following the theatrical release.
Who are the primary actors featured in ‘The Rivals of Amziah King’?
The film stars Matthew McConaughey in the lead role, marking his first live-action performance since 2019. Kurt Russell and Cole Sprouse also feature prominently in the cast.
The story follows a character named Kateri who reunites with a former foster parent named Amziah, though specific character details for each actor haven’t been fully revealed.
Can I find behind-the-scenes content from ‘The Rivals of Amziah King’?
Behind-the-scenes footage from the production is available on the film’s official social media accounts. Several cast interviews have been released as part of the promotional campaign.
Matthew McConaughey has discussed his return to acting in recent interviews, sharing insights about the filming process and his character development.
Where were the main shooting locations for ‘The Rivals of Amziah King’?
The British crime thriller was primarily filmed across several locations in the United Kingdom. Key scenes were shot in London’s East End, capturing the gritty atmosphere essential to the film’s tone.
Additional filming took place in rural areas of Scotland, providing contrast to the urban settings and enhancing the visual storytelling of the film.
How can I become an extra in movies like ‘The Rivals of Amziah King’?
Aspiring extras should register with reputable casting agencies that specialize in background talent. Most productions work exclusively through established agencies rather than hiring individuals directly.
Creating a simple portfolio with clear headshots and basic measurements is essential. Following casting directors and production companies on social media can also provide alerts about upcoming opportunities.
