Neds (2010)

Encompassed by violent street gangs, neglectful parents, bullying teachers and a dearth of positive role models, a studious but emotionally abandoned kid turns thug.

Director:

Peter Mullan

Writer:

Peter Mullan

Stars:

Conor McCarron, Greg Forrest, Joe Szula

7 wins & 6 nominations.

Cast

Cast overview, first billed only:
Conor McCarron	...	John McGill
Greg Forrest	...	Young John (as Gregg Forrest)
Joe Szula	...	Benny McGill
Mhairi Anderson	...	Elizabeth
Gary Milligan	...	Canta
John Joe Hay	...	Fergie
Christopher Wallace	...	Wee T
Richard Mack	...	Gerr
Paul Smith	...	Key Man
Khai Nugent	...	Tam
Ryan Walker	...	Sparra
Lee Fanning	...	Minty
Ross Greig	...	Fifey
Greg McCreadie	...	Tora
Scott Ingram	...	Casper

Storyline

Despite having a drunken, abusive father and a brother who leads a local gang John McGill is a studious boy for whom a bright educational future beckons. As he grows into his teenage years, the challenges of youth mixed with the challenges of being brought up in a tribal and violent place right at the low end of the class spectrum take their toll. John is a fighter, which although isn't what his Mother, at least, wishes for him; may it prove to be what brings him salvation?

---

Plot Keywords:

abusive father | bridge | brother brother relationship | kissing | broken window | 

---

Taglines:

Some people need to be taught a lesson.

---

Genres:

Drama

---

Certificate:

TV-14

Did You Know?

Trivia

The main character on the edge of sanity has a weapon in his hand and play-acts tough guy in front his bedroom mirror similar to the famous "are you looking at me" scene with Travis Bickle.

---

Goofs

Teachers were not allowed to smoke in classrooms in the mid-1970s.

---

Quotes

Fergie: Benny McGill's wee brother's a smart wee cunt. How do you no' know I'm no' on my way to go stab fuck out of him right now? And how do you know I wouldnae take it out on you? See that there? That's a fucking blade. Know what that's used for? For gutting daft wee fucking boys like you, you wee cunt. Luckily for you, however, I'm a fuckin' good guy, and me and Benny are good pals.

---

Connections

References A Clockwork Orange (1971)

---

Soundtracks

See My Baby Jive
Written by Roy Wood
Performed by Wizzard

User Reviews

Social realism and critique

The film successfully exposes the frustrations and impotence of failed systems in religion, education, friendship, families, government and employment. Scenes that are funny one moment take on deeper and darker meaning the next. Excellent acting, writing and direction. What is referred to by one reviewer as the Jesus scene, I felt is central to the thread of religion that runs through the movie, though each viewer can interpret it as they wish. It is just as appropriate as Rentons withdrawal scenes in Trainspotting for comparison. It seemed to me that the characters could deal with the physical beatings, but the subtle, and silent violence was more brutal, insidious, and damaging. It is one of those films that will keep you thinking long after the credits finish.

Details

Official Sites:

Official site

Country:

UK France Italy

Language:

English Scots Latin

Release Date:

20 April 2011 (USA)

Also Known As:

Neds

Filming Locations:

Clydebank, West Dunbartonshire, Scotland, UK

Box Office

Budget:

GBP4,000,000 (estimated)

Cumulative Worldwide Gross:

$2,019,939

Company Credits

Production Co:

Blue Light, Fidélité Films, StudioUrania

Technical Specs

Runtime:

124 min

Sound Mix:

Dolby Digital

Color:

Color

Aspect Ratio:

2.35 : 1