True History of the Kelly Gang is a 2019 historical drama movie directed by Justin Kurzel and written by Shaun Grant based on the novel of the same name by Peter Carey. The movie follows the story of notorious Australian bushranger Ned Kelly, played by George MacKay, and his gang as they confront corrupt authorities and battle for survival in colonial Australia during the 1870s.
The film is divided into four main parts, each representing a significant period in the life of Ned Kelly. The first part shows Ned as a young boy (played by Orlando Schwerdt) living with his mother Ellen (Essie Davis) and abusive stepfather George King (Ben Corbett). Ned is befriended by bushranger Harry Power (Russell Crowe), who teaches him bushcraft and the ways of the outlaw.
The middle section of the movie follows Ned and his gang, including his brother Dan (Earl Cave), Steve Hart (Louis Hewison), and Joe Byrne (Sean Keenan), as they commit a series of daring robberies and confrontations with police. They are pursued by Superintendent Francis Hare (Nicholas Hoult), who is determined to bring them to justice.
The third part shows the gang in hiding, living with their respective partners as they plan their next moves. However, tensions arise between the members as Ned becomes increasingly obsessed with his desire for revenge against those who have wronged him. The final part of the movie follows the famous siege of Glenrowan, where Ned and his gang donned homemade iron armor and engaged in a shootout with police that ended with Ned's capture.
True History of the Kelly Gang is a visually stunning and thought-provoking movie that explores themes of identity, family, and rebellion against an oppressive system. The film garnered critical acclaim upon its premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival and has since been praised for its performances, direction, and cinematography.