The latest from director Jeff Nichols, The Bikeriders, opens on Friday. It could be one of the bigger contenders of the year after moving to June from late 2023. In honor of the film’s release, I’m looking at Nichols’ previous feature films. Films appear in chronological order.

Take Shelter (2011)
About: This was Nichols’ first big theatrical film, a sort of supernatural thriller with a cast that includes Michael Shannon and Jessica Chastain. This is an interesting story with some powerful moments and a great performance from Shannon. It might not be for everyone, but it’s a solid debut film.

Mud (2012)
About: His follow up was about a couple of boys who encounter a fugitive (Matthew McConaughey) hiding on an island. They decide to help him as he tries to stay alive and reunite with his great love (Reese Witherspoon). One of the boys was played by Tye Sheridan. It was an interesting story with some good performances. I particularly liked Sheridan and McConaughey. But it isn’t always a fun watch and sometimes feels a little long.

Midnight Special (2016)
About: This might be the one that really put him on the map. It follows a father (Shannon, in his third Nichols film) who goes on the run with his son (Jaden Martell) after he develops some powers that catch the eye of the government. It is a return to the supernatural and science fiction, and it works well. It also has a heck of a cast, including Sam Shepherd, Joel Edgerton, Kirsten Dunst, and Adam Driver. This is my favorite of his films.

Loving (2016)
About: This biopic should have gotten more attention. It tells the true story of Richard (Edgerton) and Mildred Loving (Ruth Negga), an inter-racial couple in Virginia who were arrested and tried because they got married in violation of the law in the 1960s. It’s an important story and very well told. It deserved more attention when it was released.

Matthew Fox is a graduate of the Radio, Television and Film program at Biola University, and a giant nerd. He spends his free time watching movies, TV, and obsessing about football. He is a member of the FSWA. You can find him @knighthawk7734 on Twitter and as co-host of the Fantasy Football Roundtable Podcast.