The Rivals of Amziah King was praised as a multi-genre crowdpleaser when it screened at Sundance earlier this year. From director Andrew Patterson (best known for 2019’s The Vast of Night), the southern set crime drama marks Matthew McConaughey’s first starring role in six years with a supporting cast including Kurt Russell, Cole Sprouse, Owen Teague, Scott Shepherd, Rob Morgan, and Tony Revolori. Playing McConaughey’s foster daughter, newcomer Angelina LookingGlass is drawing early raves.
The reaction from Park City in January has me thinking Rivals is a possibility for numerous awards. That includes McConaughey in Actor. His sole Oscar nod for 2013’s Dallas Buyers Club resulted in a victory and this could mark his second attempt. LookingGlass could contend in Supporting Actress as could Patterson’s direction and original screenplay. If it can score mentions in those categories, BP is also on the table. When I did my inaugural ranked predictions a week ago, Rivals was slotted 6th in Picture, Patterson was fourth in Director, McConaughey landed 2nd in Actor, and LookingGlass was 3rd in Supporting Actress. Down-the-line races like Cinematography and Editing are also in the mix.
King has yet to be dated for release, but I’m assuming an autumn rollout with possible spots at other fests like Telluride and/or Toronto. Its distributor will need to mount a robust campaign. Based on its buzz, I’m assuming they will and that Rivals is a title to watch out for throughout the season. My Oscar Prediction posts will continue…