Though recognized for heroism as a lad, Ned Kelly can not escape the stigma of being the eldest of a brood sired by a known criminal. In days when an arrest equaled guilt and a conviction, his unfair imprisonment for horse thievery puts him steadfast, in the eyes of Victorian police, on the wrong side of things for life. With a sister unable to dissuade the unwanted advances of Constable Fitzpatrick, Ned, his brother Dan, and friends Joe Byrne and Steve Hart soon find themselves labeled "an outlaw gang" by the less-than-honorable constable. It's a designation they're apt to live up to after Ned's mother is unfairly arrested and sentenced to three years hard labor. In retaliation, the Kelly Gang strikes out against the oppressive Victorian government, with ultimately tragic results and passage into Australian folklore. An innocent man becomes one of the most wanted criminals the world has ever known. Ned Kelly is directed by Gregor Jordan and written by John Michael McDonagh (based on "Our Sunshine" written by Robert Drewe). It stars Heath Ledger, Orlando Bloom, Naomi Watts, Geoffrey Rush and Joel Edgerton. Music is by Klaus Badelt and cinematography by Oliver Stapleton.<br/><br/>The Australian Robin Hood? Well not quite, but Ned Kelly's name and exploits live on for ever more. As is often the case with film's of this type, such as Braveheart, it's best to approach them as interpretations of real events and people, than actual historical facts. The core basis of Ned Kelly the man is here, and the picture built around him is handsomely mounted. Also ripe with strong character portrayals by the key actors (fluctuating accents and dodgy beards aside) and shot through with enough lyrical smarts by Jordan, it's a film big on atmosphere and authentic feel.<br/><br/>However, obviously hamstrung by budget and running time etc, much of the story feels incomplete. There's also the problem of under using Geoffrey Rush, who although playing a key character in the Kelly legend, is only on the periphery of things. Still, the evident problems can't stop it from being an engaging piece of entertainment. It's consistently beautiful to look at, Badelt's mournful musical score is an absolute cracker and the action is well staged by the passionate Jordan.<br/><br/>We are still waiting for the definitive Ned Kelly Gang movie, because although this is made with care of the source stories, it only scratches the surface of this most interesting period of Australian history. 7/10 I saw Ned Kelly last night, and believe it or not, this movie is actually very good. The acting is superb, and the emotional factor is very high. Ned Kelly achieves what it set out to do: it tells a story. Of course it is biased, but if it wasn't there would be no emotional value, and it would be dull and boring. There are some very funny moments, and some very sad moments. The cast was *definitely* well-chosen. Joel Edgerton and Orlando Bloom were fantastic, completely believable. I think Orlando will be around for a long time, judging by his performances so far. The only slight let-down was Heath Ledger. I've never been a fan of his, and I doubt I ever will be, but I have to admit he made a good Ned. I just wish he could have given his character more depth. Anyway, I would recommend this movie to anyone. It was a wonderful experience, and I wish it had lasted longer. Since Ned Kelly – which is not terrible, just too often dull – has a no-expense-spared feel to it, this Focus Features release can be regarded only as an opportunity missed.
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