Review of Neds (2007) by Bernard L — 08 Feb 2011

I have to admit that this movie's title put me off right from the start and I was dreading watching another 'Scum' type shock-flick. Real-life Neds had a name change (and style change!) in the Naughties! They've been known as Chavs for the past decade. However, with the current financial climate denying them their 'bling', Neds are back?! They've borrowed their 'uniform' from the 90's and can be spotted anywhere in Glasgow with their shell-suits, hooded tops and Burberry baseball caps (or a combination of all 3..) Enough of my commentary on current society...

Yes there's violence in spadefuls but it's not gratuitous and does not take over the movie at any stage. The school belting's were almost chaplinesque (speeded up) in delivery style and not quite how I remembered witnessing such events at school. This would be my only criticism on the attention to detail front.

What's it all about? Personally, I think Mullan makes a valid point throughout this movie. Gifted kids from poor backgrounds have a huge uphill struggle to fully achieve their potential. To be labelled a 'swot' and experience ridicule from both your peers and some teachers is hardly inspiring - to say the least. Yes, the most disadvantaged will find it harder and that's a fact of life.

To go from being a meek mannered kid who's top of his primary school class to the toughest and hardest nut (Ned?) in the 'hood' is maybe a stretch of the imagination but not entirely unbelievable. He is, after all, expected to follow in his big brother's footsteps! Despite almost losing it completely towards the end, there does seem to be a last final chance for some redemption for young John McGill...

The final scene at Blair Drummond safari park reminded me of Peter Sellers walking on water in his last movie - Being There! Not as surreal but equally poignant and thought provoking. This movie will have more resonance with Scottish viewers, but there's a message there for a larger audience.