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NEW YORK – Oscar-winning actor Matthew McConaughey opens up about his role in the new film The Rivals of Amziah King, sharing how his character draws profound life lessons from an unexpected source: the bees he tends.
“The bees are Amziah’s church,” McConaughey said in a recent Zoom interview. “They’re like people, like this community. By the end of the film, Amziah’s reflections on the bees and their way of life mirror exactly who his tribe is.”
Directed by Andrew Patterson and hitting theaters this Friday, the movie is set against the backdrop of contemporary Oklahoma. It follows Amziah as he struggles to make a living, plays music with friends at potluck dinners, and reconnects with his former foster daughter, Kateri, played by Angelina LookingGlass.
LookingGlass describes her character’s journey from guarded apprentice to confident queen. “She grew up with really difficult circumstances, moving through numerous group homes after Amziah’s wife passed,” she explained.
“Kateri keeps her guard up initially, but Amziah breaks through because he truly sees her. Her arc in the film is beautiful – from reserved to strong and fierce, learning about community and trust.”
McConaughey added, “That’s what good filmmaking is – when the script weaves visual storytelling with meaningful metaphor. Kateri’s transformation is both an allegory and a fable.”
Director Andrew Patterson emphasized the importance of fresh, communal storytelling in cinema today. “We need bold stories that bring people together – stories where we meet a community, witness their hardships, and see them triumph. That shared experience, whether in a theater, concert, sermon, or comedy show, is primal and essential.”
The film’s ensemble cast also includes Kurt Russell, Cole Sprouse, Tony Revolori, Owen Teague, Jake Horowitz, and Scott Shepherd.
With its heartfelt exploration of community, resilience, and connection, The Rivals of Amziah King offers a timely reminder of the power of storytelling to unite and inspire.