Matthew McConaughey's forgotten thriller with a 'sense of mystery' is now streaming for free

This weekend, you can stream a critically lauded dramatic thriller featuring Matthew McConaughey for free.

Available on BBC iPlayer from Saturday, 19th July, it's a must-see for fans of the Oscar-winning Hollywood heavyweight.

McConaughey, renowned for his performances in Interstellar and True Detective, initially rose to fame as a charming lead in romantic comedies, sharing the screen with stars like Kate Hudson and Sarah Jessica Parker.

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Before clinching an Oscar for his role in Dallas Buyers Club and venturing into the cosmos with Christopher Nolan's Interstellar, McConaughey starred in a lesser-known but highly praised coming-of-age drama directed by Jeff Nichols.

In Mud, McConaughey plays a fugitive on the run who forms an unlikely pact with two young lads while concealed on a secluded island, reports the Express.

The film features Tye Sheridan (Ready Player One) and Jacob Lofland (Landman) as the duo who stumble upon Mud hiding in a derelict boat and decide to aid him in reuniting with his beloved, Juniper (played by Reese Witherspoon).

Despite receiving glowing reviews and boasting a stellar 97 percent rating on Rotten Tomatoes, this 2012 gem has often been eclipsed by McConaughey's more prominent roles. Now, it's getting another shot at recognition among UK viewers via BBC iPlayer.

A fervent five-star Google review exclaimed: "Loved this movie-watched it with my teenage son-a rich spiritual universe is contained within this well crafted and brilliantly acted film.

"There is a depth, authenticity and mystery here not often found-there aren't enough intelligent soulful movies that so artfully speak to adults and (older) teens at the same time. Mysterious and simply entertaining; easy as a snack but as (ful)filling as a thick, juicy steak. Watch it with someone you care about."

Another viewer raved: "Dreamy with a touch of poetic licence - I found it quite captivating. Keeps you guessing to the end.

"The views on the river are stunning," a different enthusiast wrote: "I would strongly recommend for older kids and young adults.

"It maintains the sense of mystery and adventure, while dealing with many of the issues young people struggle to understand. It is both harrowing and warm hearted. i personally loved it. The fact that McConaughey is gorgeous does not hurt."

The acclaim carries on over on Letterboxd, where another five-star critique states: "Jeff Nichols' Mud is a beautiful coming of age film. Not only is it beautiful but also, compelling, thrilling, heartily emotional and a well-rounded film."

Meanwhile, a final supporter declared: "The last half hour of this is some of the greatest filmmaking I've seen in a while. Goddamn, I loved it.

"McConaughey kills it once again and this kid Tye Sheridan, man, he is great."

Don't miss your opportunity to discover Mud as it arrives on the free streaming platform this weekend.

Mud is available on BBC iPlayer from Saturday, 19th July.