Yes, not everyone exists under an environment conducive to success & achievements. This is the discomforting reality 2010's hard-hitting drama Neds spotlights. Here, Peter Mullan conveys without remorse, the downward spiral of the initially promising John McGill, set against the backdrop of hooligan culture around the 70s Glasgow youth. With this premise, John's descent, ushered from societal pressure & personal demons, was then quite the tragedy to witness. Mullan's unrelenting screenplay paves the way, as he captures the brutal consequences brought by systemic failure, toxic masculinity & class warfare, unearthing the violent world of street gangs which is easily the picture's most gripping facet. Where the picture makes a point but also succumbs to cinematic question marks is its refusal to give its characters redemption, teasing audiences at every possible opportunity. This undermines the efforts for authenticity, for the sake of perceived melodrama.
Of course, the performance of Connor McCarron deserves mention, carrying Neds engrossing beats through fantastic portrayal of internal conflict and transformation. He conveys the state of lost innocence with depth and captivating intensity, worthy of our emotional distress when Mullan takes the confrontations a notch more haunting.
In case not clear, Neds is far from the heartwarming kind. It is a discomforting watch experience, with Mullan's searing portrait of youth that comes devoid of morals. Nevertheless, this is a must see for those enamored with raw performances & poignant themes while those squeamish from violence, should probably steer clear. 7/10.
