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Director:
Gregor Jordan

Starring:
Heath Ledger
Orlando Bloom
Geoffrey Rush
Naomi Watts
Joel Edgerton

Release: 26 Mar. 04
IMDb

Posing as the Irish answer to Bonnie and Clyde, Ned Kelly is one of the most ineptly constructed action dramas in years. Its portrayal of men on the run from the law might be based on a real outlaw in Ireland, but under the direction of Gregor Jordan the significance fails to come alive. Instead, it’s like watching a few beautiful people exchange long, meaningful looks in between tedious shootouts.

Furthermore, none of their actions seem terribly compelling for their case. Sure, Kelly is innocent when he first goes on the run, but his later actions cause his to become less sympathetic to the point that the ruthless police chasing him become the real protagonists. It’s like watching a Friday the 13th film: the only way to enjoy yourself is to root for Jason to catch and kill the kids. It’s the only way to find a worthy subject, and the only way to ensure a happy ending.