The western-musical-drama, directed by Andrew Patterson, captivated audiences with its unconventional storytelling, heartfelt performances, and humor.McConaughey, making his return to the big screen after six years, introduced the film by praising its originality. “Not often does something cross my desk where I think, ‘Oh, that’s an original language, place, and space,’” he told the crowd. He described the film as blending humor, innocence, and spirit, set in an unusual world of a beekeeper and a bluegrass-playing band that performs in Dairy Queen parking lots.
The film follows Amziah King, played by McConaughey, a charismatic beekeeper in rural Oklahoma who oversees a bluegrass band of misfits while running the town’s top honey-making operation. His life takes a turn when his estranged foster daughter, played by newcomer Angelina LookingGlass, returns, sparking his hope for a family business. However, rival beekeepers threaten to dismantle everything he has built.
Patterson’s film drew strong reactions from the SXSW audience, with many comparing its impact to Everything Everywhere All at Once, which premiered at the festival before winning Best Picture at the Oscars. Industry insiders anticipate strong interest from studios and streamers looking to acquire distribution rights.
Produced by David Heyman, Teddy Schwarzman, and others, the film also stars Kurt Russell, Jake Horowitz, Scott Shepherd, Rob Morgan, Tony Revolori, Owen Teague, Bruce Davis, and Cole Sprouse. If acquired, The Rivals of Amziah King could emerge as a major contender in the awards circuit.