The McConaughaissance Isn't Over: Free State Of Jones Trailer 2 Lands

Matthew McConnaughey heads up civil war drama.

By Ben Bussey /

STX Entertainment

A historical epic based on real events, set in America's Deep South? Well, there was only ever one actor who could take the lead.

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With his middle of the road rom-com days long behind him, Matthew McConaughey brings his awards-ladened star status to Free State of Jones, the new movie from director Gary Ross.

Check out the new trailer below.

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It hasn't been too long since McConaughey conquered Hollywood on his own terms with the small/big screen double whammy of True Detective and The Dallas Buyers Club.

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Free State of Jones would appear to continue in that tradition, telling a worthwhile story whilst given its leading man a role he can really make a mark in.

The film's official synopsis tell us, "Free State of Jones tells the story of defiant Southern farmer, Newt Knight, and his extraordinary armed rebellion against the Confederacy.

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"Banding together with other small farmers and local slaves, Knight launched an uprising that led Jones County, Mississippi to secede from the Confederacy, creating a Free State of Jones.

"Knight continued his struggle into Reconstruction, distinguishing him as a compelling, if controversial, figure of defiance long beyond the War."

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Something tells us this one might be making its presence felt once awards season rolls around again... although the trailer would seem to suggest we can also expect a lot of thrills and action.

Free State of Jones opens in the US on 24th June, and throughout most other territories across the summer; it arrives in the UK on 9th September.

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