Matthew McConaughey is an actor known for his iconic roles, including his performance in the cult classic Interstellar, which captivated audiences with its deep storyline and grand visuals. But beyond his impressive career in film, McConaughey is also known for his great taste in movie selections. Here are three films that he highly recommends for viewing:
Hud (1962)
Hud Bannon is a young and carefree ranch owner in Texas. He enjoys life, often getting involved in love affairs with married women and spending money earned by his hard-working father. His father, Old Homer, cannot forgive Hud's immorality and irresponsibility, feeling deep contempt toward him. Their tense battle becomes more destructive with each passing year, and its consequences are hard to predict.
"Great example of how brilliant drama can happen even if the lead character never changes. P.S. – Patricia Neal, "You want an orange? I’ll peel it for ya." Wow," McConaughey comments.
Angel Heart (1987)
New York, 1955. Private detective Harry Angel is tasked by a mysterious man named Louis Cypher to find musician Johnny Favorite. Cypher had signed a contract with him in 1943, but after the war, Johnny ended up in a psychiatric hospital and later disappeared. As Angel investigates, he is drawn into a series of mysterious deaths and events. The deeper he digs, the more dangerous his search becomes, with everyone linked to the case vanishing.
"The thriller; superstitions, New Orleans, Mickey Rourke, the sex scene where the blood drips from the ceiling, intercut with the boy on the street tap dancing for change… Ceiling fans," McConaughey notes.
Adaptation (2002)
Famous screenwriter Charlie Kaufman takes on the adaptation of Susan Orlean’s book The Orchid Thief, but soon faces a creative crisis. He feels lost and unable to find inspiration for his work. One day, Charlie begins writing about his personal experiences, but soon notices how his personal life begins to merge with reality, and his life and script intertwine in the strangest way.
"The scene in the swamp at the end when the brothers talk about love and betrayal and he says, "It didn’t matter if she loved me. I loved her." Poetry. A life lesson. Also, most effective car crash I’ve seen on film: jarring and lethal, it makes me feel like I’m the one getting hit every time I see it… Nicolas Cage acting with Nicolas Cage," the actor reflects.
McConaughey’s film recommendations showcase his appreciation for powerful storytelling, emotional depth, and thought-provoking narratives. Each of these films offers a unique cinematic experience that continues to inspire him.