The world is in a pretty shit mood right now. COVID-19 is all over the news and taking a dump could become a lot more inconvenient as people stockpile bog roll. Therefore, on a Friday night, I was in the mood for an enjoyable, hopefully light at time film. Kelly Gang… didn’t provide this, as scenes full of violence and sadistic imagery very much reminds one that this is not no time to die. (Sorry).

The film, based on the novel of the same name, follows Ned Kelly. He is a young second generation immigrant to Australia. We start of with his childhood, where Ned (Orlando Schwerdt) deals with the death of his imprisoned father and the corruption of the local policeman. When his mother, brilliantly played by Essie Davis, sells him to Harry Power (Russel Crowe), this hurts Ned as he decides to make his own way in the world. Soon after, we see him grow in to an adult played by George McKay. This biopic continues as he falls in love and has to deal with corruption and family.

The film starts off as a disturbing biopic. The imagery is strong and at times fails to add to the plot. It’s 18-rated for good reason. The characters are bad people in an uncompromising way. After a while, we see a tonal shift as we head into a slightly Apocalypse Now-esque story, ending with some rather eccentric strobe effects (Not one for epileptic people).

The cinematography retains it’s cold, harsh tones throughout, with lots of greys signifying a terrible land of death. Everything feels very minimalist. There are no incredible set pieces and very little music throughout. This film wants to be tense and almost not be enjoyed, but appreciated.

The acting is phenomenal. Both McKay and Schwert provide brilliant lead performances. A star-studded background cast of Nicholas Hoult, Thomasin Mackenzie, Russel Crowe and Charlie Hunnam only make the film better. However, Essie Davis really steals the show as the mother. They dynamic between her and both Ned Kellys is really what the film relies on. Her family first mantra causes plenty of conflict within Ned, with her selfish actions also causing him a lot of harm.

Summary

Sadistic, violent and uncompromising, TTHOTKG is not an easy watch to stomach, but if you can, there is a brilliantly acted story about family loyalty, corruption and masculinity worth watching. [Grade: B]