Review of Neds (2007) by Jason J — 10 Jun 2011

NEDS is a fantastic coming-of-age story with outstanding performances from a young and untrained cast. Director Peter Mullan captures the essence of Glasgow gang culture. The movie is brutal, touching and, thanks to an excellent script which oozes with the tension and volatility of the darker side of Glasgow's character, it carries an ever-increasing level of tension which culminates in an explosion of violence and emotional turmoil that is heart-breaking as much as it is disturbing. The dialect is definitely a potential stumbling-block to the movie's chances of appealing to a world-wide audience, despite it's themes of tribal-like warfare on the streets ringing true in all corners of the world. However, those who can deal with the relentless swearing and interpret the thick Glaswegian lingo will be rewarded with a hard-hitting experience.

Despite a couple of dips into unnecessary weirdness, such as the Jesus- vision, the movie maintains a solid pace and, while a little long for some, it captivated me well enough that I never became disinterested. The characters are magnificently portrayed and the break-down, attempt at redemption and ultimate open-ended journey of the leading man is pulled-off tremendously. This movie will have more resonance with Scottish viewers, but there's a message there for a larger audience. Recommended.