A Cinematic Melange: ‘The Rivals of Amziah King’

The honey business does not seem as idyllic as one might expect in the new film, The Rivals of Amziah King. The plot involves beekeepers engaged in theft, sabotage, and deceitful practices. The title character, Amziah King, warns of the not-so-kind nature of this industry.

This movie itself lacks sweetness in its execution, blending multiple genres in a chaotic mix. It combines elements reminiscent of Quentin Tarantino’s sudden violence, a coming-of-age story, a heist film, a tale of revenge, and a light-hearted, music-filled country setting.

Matthew McConaughey stars as the titular character, bringing his characteristic charm and Southern flair to the role. With suspenders and rugged facial hair, McConaughey’s presence lights up the screen. Written by Andrew Patterson and James Montague, with direction by Patterson, the film follows McConaughey’s character as he navigates his honey-production business in rural Oklahoma.

The narrative unexpectedly shifts when McConaughey hands over the reins to new character Angelina LookingGlass, marking her film debut.

The film opens with Amziah King ordering meals and playing the banjo at a local food joint. He soon gets drawn into a mystery involving abandoned honey barrels worth $250,000. The plot takes another sharp turn with a graphic industrial accident, setting the stage for more twists to come.

King reconnects with LookingGlass, a former foster daughter. He guides her in local customs, offering wisdom on everything from potluck dishes to life lessons and beekeeping. Bees symbolize community and care throughout, albeit communicated through awkward writing.

Cinematographer M.I. Littin-Menz employs various camera techniques—a mix of static shots, fast close-ups, quick edits, and whimsical flashbacks. The erratic style suggests a lack of confidence in the story’s ability to hold attention.

Music plays a significant role, with loud, varied musical choices curated by music supervisor Winslow Bright. Amidst poignant Americana tunes like “Quill” and “Johnny Come Outside,” scenes are disrupted by unsettling imagery and mismatched genre shifts.

The film features strong performances from Kurt Russell as a local crime leader and Owen Teague as a skilled, often shirtless, ex-Marine. Certain elements seem borrowed from other works, such as “O Brother, Where Art Thou?” yet fall short in execution.

Despite Patterson’s efforts to highlight Oklahoma roots, much of the film was shot in Alabama. This contributes to an overall lack of authenticity in both setting and storytelling, leaving an unsatisfactory tone.

The Rivals of Amziah King, released by Black Bear, hits theaters on Friday. Rated R for language and graphic scenes by the Motion Picture Association, the film runs for 130 minutes and earns two stars out of four.