Neds
Neds

Movie spotlight

Neds

2010
Movie
124 min
English

NEDs (Non Educated Delinquents) is the story of a young man’s journey from prize-winning schoolboy to knife-carrying teenager. Struggling against the low expectations of those around him, John McGill changes from victim to avenger, scholar to NED, altar boy to glue sniffer. When he attempts to change back again, his new reality and recent past make conformity near impossible and violent self determination near inevitable.

Insights

IMDb6.8/10
Rotten Tomatoes88%
Metacritic77/100
Google Users80%
Director: Peter MullanGenres: Drama, Crime, Coming-of-age

Plot Summary

Set in Glasgow in 1970s, 'Neds' chronicles the tumultuous journey of John McGill, a bright but troubled teenager navigating the brutal realities of his working-class environment. Torn between his academic potential and the allure of street gangs, John grapples with identity, violence, and the harsh expectations of his society. The film follows his descent into delinquency as he struggles to find his place in a world that offers him few legitimate opportunities.

Critical Reception

Peter Mullan's 'Neds' was critically acclaimed for its raw intensity, unflinching portrayal of youth violence, and powerful performances, particularly from its young lead. Critics praised its authenticity and Mullan's directorial vision, though some found its bleakness challenging.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its visceral energy and authentic depiction of troubled youth.

  • Recognized for strong performances and Peter Mullan's compelling direction.

  • Noted for its unflinching and often disturbing portrayal of social issues.

Google audience: Audience reviews generally highlight the film's powerful storytelling and realistic portrayal of life for teenagers in challenging circumstances. Many viewers found the performances compelling and the film thought-provoking, despite its intense subject matter.

Awards & Accolades

Winner of the Edinburgh International Film Festival Trailblazer Award and the San Sebastián International Film Festival Silver Seashell for Best Director.

Fun Fact

Director Peter Mullan drew heavily on his own experiences growing up in Glasgow during the 1970s to inform the film's gritty realism.

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My Review

TMDB Reviews

1 reviews
Kenneth Axel Carlsson

Kenneth Axel Car...

A boy, John McGill, gets a rough start on his education when a much older boy threatens him. Fearing for his life, he enlists the aid of his older brother, Benny, who can take care of business, and does. From this moment on, everything star...