Ellis, 14 years old (Tye Shiridan), lives in a small houseboat by the Arkansas riverbanks with his parents Mary Lee (Sarah Paulson), and Senior (Ray McKinnon). One morning, he sneaks out to see his best friend Neckbone (Jacob Lofland). Neckbone is also 14 years old and lives with Galen Shannon (Michael Shannon), a tough-working diver who earns a living from oyster diving. Neckbone and his brother set off to find an unorthodox sight on an island in the Mississippi River. Neckbone discovered a floating boat high up in trees that was left behind by an extremely flood in the past. The boys climb up the tree to get into the boat, only to discover fresh bread and footprints. They realize they’re not the only ones to have found the treehouse boat and decide to go. They find the exact same footprint on their boat when they get to the shore. They meet Mud (Matthew McConaughey). Mud is gritty and superstitious. His clothes are stained, his teeth cracked, and his needs for help. In exchange for food, he tells them he’ll give the treehouse boat to the boys. Neckbone resists Ellis’ offer of food, and the two form a tentative friendship. Ellis discovers Mud killed a Texas man, so police and bounty hunters seek him out. But Mud cares more about his long-time girlfriend, Juniper (Reese Witherspoon). Ellis has found his crush and agrees to assist Mud with Juniper’s escape. In an attempt to save Mud, Ellis and Neckbone devise bold plans to relay messages to Juniper. Juniper is currently in a fleabag motel under the constant watch of Carver (Paul Sparks), who is a Texas bounty hunter. Carver (and his gang) are determined to capture Mud on the orders of Joe Don Baker, a cold-blooded King. The boys are willing to risk their lives to find these mythical love interests, but Ellis is challenged by strains in relationships close to him. His parents’ relationship has been dissolved and he fails to please May Pearl (Bonnie Sturdivant). Ellis is trying to find a love story he believes in. He learns about the risks and rules of love, and how heartbreak can happen. Roadside Attractions