The honey industry depicted in the new film “The Rivals of Amziah King” paints a picture far from idyllic. Beekeepers engage in underhanded tactics including theft, poisoning, and deception. The lead character, Amziah King, states that the business lacks kindness.
“The Rivals of Amziah King” is a blend of various genres. The film mixes Quentin Tarantino’s sudden violence, a coming-of-age story, a heist narrative, a revenge plot, and a country hoedown.
Matthew McConaughey stars as Amziah King, offering his signature charm and charisma. Dressed in suspenders and cowboy boots, his character improves the atmosphere wherever he goes. The screenplay, written by Andrew Patterson and James Montague, with direction by Patterson, brings McConaughey’s King into rural Oklahoma, where he leaves unexpectedly halfway through the movie, passing the torch to Angelina LookingGlass in her film debut.
King is initially seen ordering chicken-fried steak sandwiches and cherry Cokes, playing in a band. His routine is disrupted when authorities require his expertise to investigate abandoned honey barrels worth $250,000. A subsequent industrial accident, leading to a death, shifts the narrative focus.
King reconnects with his former foster daughter, LookingGlass, who grounds the film with her fierce performance. King explains local customs to her, touching on potluck meals, life lessons, and the world of beekeeping, where bees symbolize community and cooperation.
Cinematography by M.I. Littin-Menz uses diverse techniques, including static shots and rapid edits. The storytelling aims for energy but lacks confidence in holding the audience’s interest visually.
Musical interludes with loud instrumentation punctuate the film, though genre shifts disrupt viewer immersion. T Bone Burnett contributes to the soundtrack, with highlights like “Quill” featuring McConaughey, and “Johnny Come Outside.” Yet, abrupt tonal changes, such as violence mixed with communal music scenes, can feel jarring.
Notable performances include Kurt Russell as a charming yet dangerous local figure, and Owen Teague as a precise, shirtless thief. The film draws comparisons to “O Brother, Where Art Thou?” but lacks similar authenticity.
The setting claims Oklahoma roots, but much was filmed in Alabama, contributing to a lack of genuine atmosphere. Though the film tries to engage with its themes, it struggles with authenticity in both location and narrative.
“The Rivals of Amziah King,” distributed by Black Bear, releases in theaters this Friday. The film is rated R for language and grisly imagery, with a runtime of 130 minutes. Rated two out of four stars.
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