Matthew McConaughey‘s journey in drama films took a pivotal turn with the release of “Mud,” the movie that reignited his reputation as a serious actor after a string of lighter roles. The acclaimed drama played a key role in reshaping McConaughey’s career trajectory, influencing both his future projects and inspiring cast members like Jacob Lofland.
How “Mud” Reset McConaughey’s Career in Drama
Following several years dominated by romantic comedies and films like “Tiptoes,” Matthew McConaughey found renewed critical respect in the early 2010s. While his Oscar-winning role in “Dallas Buyers Club” made headlines later, it was “Mud” that marked his return to more demanding, dramatic work. In the film, McConaughey took on the role of a mysterious fugitive hiding on an island, dependent on the help of two local boys—Ellis, played by Tye Sheridan, and Neckbone, portrayed by Jacob Lofland.
“Mud” distinguished itself with an impressive 97% critic approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes and earned $32 million at the box office against a $10 million budget. This performance signaled a new era for McConaughey, moving him into acclaimed works like “Interstellar,” “True Detective,” and the aforementioned “Dallas Buyers Club.” Alongside McConaughey, Jacob Lofland began his own rise, crediting the experience for shaping his approach to acting.
Jacob Lofland’s Early Lessons from Working with McConaughey
Landing his first acting job in “Mud,” Jacob Lofland joined the cast after his mother spotted an open casting call. Up until that point, his acting experience was limited to school plays. Beating out dozens of teens for the role of Neckbone, Lofland launched a career that would later include the “Maze Runner” franchise and a reunion with McConaughey in “Free State of Jones” in 2016.
In a later conversation for Interview magazine, Lofland reflected on the defining influence McConaughey had on his attitude toward performance.
“You taught me the most on ‘Mud,’”
Lofland stated, going on to share further advice he received from the experienced actor:
“You always show up for your scene partners and give 110%. You don’t leave until the day is done. That is what started me off, and then keeping that mindset going and meeting all these other people who are dedicated to the craft, it makes you want to work harder.”
— Jacob Lofland, Actor
The Enduring Impact on Drama and Television
Since his breakout in “Mud,” Jacob Lofland has taken on prominent roles, most notably in “Landman,” a television drama centered on high-stakes oil deals and the ambitions of its characters, including Lofland’s Cooper Norris. The show has proven popular on Paramount+, praised for its authentic depiction of the oil industry, and has continued to showcase Lofland’s evolving skills as an actor.
During his exchange with McConaughey, Lofland revealed that had he not found his path into acting with “Mud,” he might have followed a career similar to his “Landman” character by working on an oil rig. Such stories underscore the profound influence of formative roles and mentors within the world of cinema.
The significance of “Mud” in Matthew McConaughey’s career is clear: it revived his reputation as a leading man in powerful drama films, paving the way for major successes in cinema and television. At the same time, the film fostered new talent in Jacob Lofland, who continues to build on the lessons learned from McConaughey on screen and off, bringing fresh energy to the genre of drama movies.
