Neds (an acronym for ‘Non-educated delinquents’) is Peter Mullan’s third feature film as writer and director, coming eight years after his second, The Magdalene Sisters. The film takes place in a 70s dystopian Glasgow, a bleak feature with terrifying violence but also occasional touches of black comedy and surrealism. It is perhaps a touch long, however its slow pace and length is merited, as this pacing and style mimics the gradual destruction of the protagonist.
The film centres around John Mcgill, initially played by Greg Forrest, John is a diligent student who has just left primary school with excellent results. However, he now stands in an awkward place, in a frightening exchange outside his school gates, he is told his brother has made as many enemies through his violence as friends, these bullies warn they have John firmly in their sights. Although adamant he wouldn’t follow in his brother’s footsteps, John seeks his brother Benny’s help, unwittingly heading towards the pitfall he wanted to avoid. John’s secondary school experience: with negligent and cruel teachers, an aggressive alcoholic father, (a fantastic performance by Peter Mullan), alongside the final catalyst - crushing rejection by a middle class family, cement John on an inexorable downward spiral.
