Ned Kelly stands out as one of the most notorious figures in modern Australian history, inspiring numerous captivating creative interpretations akin to iconic American figures such as Wyatt Earp or Davy Crockett. The myth surrounding Kelly has been embellished to such an extent that separating fact from fiction regarding his life can be quite challenging. A variety of thought-provoking films have been produced about Kelly’s life, including the silent epic The Story of the Kelly Gang from 1906, the 1970 biopic Ned Kelly featuring Mick Jagger, and the acclaimed Heath Ledger film Ned Kelly. While none of these films achieved critical acclaim, Justin Kurzel’s 2020 thriller True History of the Kelly Gang provided a gripping and disturbingly violent portrayal of Kelly’s notorious criminal career, even if it did not claim to present the entire truth.

Director Kurzel has shown a consistent affinity for gritty, bleak period dramas that delve into outlaw groups and resistance movements. His stunning 2015 adaptation of Macbeth, the underrated neo-noir thriller The Order, and even the controversial adaptation of Assassin’s Creed uniquely explore the minds of intricate characters who challenge the establishment. True History of the Kelly Gang fits within the “bushranger” genre, often described as Australian Westerns that investigate the violent history of the outback. This film encapsulates the finest qualities of Australian cinema and delivers a comprehensive, nuanced portrayal of Kelly on screen.

What Is ‘True History of the Kelly Gang’ About?

True History of the Kelly Gang draws its inspiration from a 2000 novel of the same name, which presents a fictionalized account of Kelly’s childhood and his rise to become the leader of one of the most feared gangs in Australian history. Although young Kelly (played by Orlando Schwerdt) has little to no real interaction with his father, Gentle Ben Corbett, he learns that his mother, Ellen (portrayed by Essie Davis), has tried to support their family by engaging in relationships with various men, including Police Sergeant O’Neill (played by Charlie Hunnam) and the infamous bushranger Harry Power (played by Russell Crowe). Power becomes his mentor, urging him to carry out an attack on O’Neill, which lands Kelly in prison. Upon his release, an older Kelly (portrayed by George MacKay) is determined to protect his family and falls in love with the prostitute Mary (played by Thomasin McKenzie). However, a confrontation with Police Constable Fitzpatrick (played by Nicholas Hoult) forces Kelly to flee, transforming his rebellious actions into a rallying cry for disenfranchised individuals across the outback.

True History of the Kelly Gang serves as a profound exploration of the enduring impacts of violence and how emotional wounds can manifest in psychological ways long after they were first inflicted. The trauma that his mother suffered during his childhood instills in Kelly a deep-seated belief that he must take on the role of protector within his family, feeling that vengeance is his only way to assert his identity. His resentment toward his father fuels his confrontations with paternal figures in his life, leading to conflicts even with his mentor, Harry Power. Despite his fierce exterior, Kelly’s motivations are rooted in a sincere love for his family; his attack on Fitzpatrick is triggered by the Constable’s attempt to marry his sister, Kate (played by Josephine Blazier), igniting his protective instincts.

‘True History of the Kelly Gang’ Isn’t a Standard Biopic

True History of the Kelly Gang artfully reinterprets its well-known historical figures, refraining from simplifying them into clear-cut heroes or villains. Despite the infamous legacy he would later build, Kelly does not perceive himself as the sole embodiment of the Australian people, only engaging in conflicts with authority figures who seek to undermine him. MacKay delivers a stunning physical performance, as Kelly learns to differentiate himself through his primal instincts. Crowe presents a captivating portrayal of Power, who is so dedicated to unleashing one’s violent potential that he is willing to provoke Kelly’s wrath. The film also thoughtfully develops its female characters; the romance between Kelly and Mary is both tasteful and poignant, adding emotional weight to the chaotic and violent climax. Although Kelly aims to rescue his mother, it becomes clear that Ellen has manipulated her son’s anger for her own empowerment.

True History of the Kelly Gang is visually striking, showcasing expansive and breathtaking landscapes of the Australian wilderness, juxtaposed with shocking moments of violence. Even though the film openly states that it does not strive for complete historical accuracy, it conveys a sense of realism in its portrayal of violence, as none of the confrontations elevate the characters to a heroic status. At times, the torment that Kelly experiences regarding his horrific actions is depicted through surreal visual elements, lending the film an aesthetic akin to a psychological horror narrative. This non-linear and artistic representation of Kelly’s journey encapsulates his profound influence on Australian culture, culminating in a thoughtful reflection on why he has become a legendary figure in folklore. While it may not fit the mold of an “awards-contending” historical drama or a mainstream adventure film, True History of the Kelly Gang undoubtedly stands as one of the most daring and thought-provoking westerns of the contemporary decade.

True History of the Kelly Gang is readily available for streaming on Hulu in the U.S.