BESSEMER, Ala. (WIAT) — Sightings of Oscar-winning actor Matthew McConaughey have been widely reported across Birmingham as he films a new movie in the area.
McConaughey, who is in town for a crime/thriller called “The Rivals of Amziah King,” has recently been seen out and about or filming at one of numerous locations across the city, like J&J Grocery and Deli, but he is residing in Mountain Brook in his free time, Mayor Stewart Welch confirmed.
Welch, who claimed to have met McConaughey and was very “down to earth,” said having the actor and the film in the area brings a lot of excitement to the community, as well as a strong economic impact for Jefferson County as a whole.
“We’re of course delighted to have him here,” Welch said. “I think Mountain Brook is a very welcoming city. It’s a very unusual city. It’s got the three villages- all very unique. And, you know, it’s got great homes. He’s staying in one great home. We’re just delighted to have him and his family here.”
It’s at J&J Grocery and Deli that McConaughey and the production crew filmed all day last Friday. Owner Allison Coker said the whole experience was “Alright, Alright, Alright,” borrowing McConaughey’s line from the 1993 movie, “Dazed and Confused.”
Coker said the burger joint was transformed into the “Dead Dino” for the day. She added it was a bit shocking only knowing one day in advance the film crew would be there, but that it couldn’t feel more unreal and exciting.
