Writer/director Jeff Nichols’ love of Mark Twain shines brightly through every frame of his latest film called Mud, the story of a young boy’s coming of age in Southeastern Arkansas’ sultry delta region. While the film’s river setting, its teenage protagonists, and strong sense of place harken back to the adventures of young Huck and Tom, a flourish of Sam Peckinpah, and a whole lot of Nichols’ emerging -- but already unique -- style combine to ensure this film’s place in American Southern Gothic mythology.

As the film opens, we meet 14-year-old Ellis (Tye Sheridan) and his friend Neckbone (Jacob Lofland) as they slip into a rickety flat-bottom boat and point it toward an overgrown sandbar. As the kids begin exploring an abandoned boat lodged high up in a tree -- the flotsam from recent floods -- they run into Mud (Matthew McConaughey), a snaggle-toothed, charismatic drifter on the run from the law. In Mud, Ellis finds a kindred spirit who, despite his age, is still very youthful in his romantic beliefs. With his parents about to split up, Ellis just wants guidance, love and acceptance. He needs an identity, and finds it in Mud.

Though Mud becomes somewhat of a father figure to the boys, his interests are of a bit more selfish nature. He’s come to the area to reclaim the love of his life, Juniper (Reese Witherspoon) and is simply using Ellis and Neckbone to help patch up the broken-down boat with hopes of eventually sailing away with Juniper. The boys bring him cans of Beanee Weenees, other provisions, and even pilfered engine parts. But it’s not too long before Juniper shows up on the mainland, unknowingly dragging a posse of bounty hunters in tow.

Nichols’ story is a good one, filled with a depth and complexity of characters that so many screenwriters struggle to bring to life. Save for a brief shootout in the third act that feels somewhat out of place, there’s not a lot of movement or action. The delight comes from Nichols’ palpable tone enhanced by a brilliant cast featuring many first-timers including the young Lofland.

Nichols’ filmmaking style is clearly influenced by such greats as Ritt, Rossen, and Rosenberg, but Mud is all Nichols. We feel the oppressive heat, smell the fishy stench, and the sounds of broken hearts pierce David Wingo’s aching score. Visual cues, whether authentic fishing gear or appropriate books on background shelves, paint the proceedings with an authenticity that breathes life into the southern atmosphere, making the location a memorable character in itself.

When all is said and done, we’re left hard-pressed to find much fault with Mud. And considering this is only Nichols’ third effort (after Shotgun Stories and Take Shelter), that’s a major accomplishment for such a young filmmaker. If there are any nits to pick, they might come from the film’s length which exceeds two hours, but never feels long or bloated. In fact, we’re honored to be along for the lazy ride and enjoy experiencing a boy’s first love as viewed through the prism of small-town (Southern) America.

(Released by Roadside Attractions and rated “PG-13” for some violence, sexual references, language, thematic elements and smoking.)

Review also posted at www.franksreelreviews.com.