The Kelly Gang (film)

The Kelly Gang, also known as Ned Kelly, refers to several films that depict the life and exploits of the infamous Australian bushranger, Ned Kelly, and his gang. These films vary in their accuracy and interpretation of historical events. Notable examples include:

• The Story of the Kelly Gang (1906): A silent film considered to be the world's first feature-length narrative film. It is largely lost, with only fragments surviving. The film presented a sympathetic portrayal of the Kelly Gang.

• Ned Kelly (1970): Starring Mick Jagger as Ned Kelly. This film received mixed reviews and is not considered a definitive portrayal of the Kelly legend.

• Ned Kelly (2003): Starring Heath Ledger as Ned Kelly. This film offers a more modern interpretation of the Kelly story, attempting to explore the social and political context of his actions. It received moderate critical and commercial success.

• True History of the Kelly Gang (2019): Starring George MacKay as Ned Kelly. This film is a highly stylized and fictionalized adaptation of Peter Carey's novel of the same name. It deviates significantly from historical accounts and presents a more experimental and violent interpretation of the Kelly Gang legend.

These films have contributed to the ongoing mythologization of Ned Kelly and the Kelly Gang within Australian popular culture. They often explore themes of class conflict, rebellion against authority, and the construction of national identity.