Peter Mullan's Glasgow-set drama Neds, which has a 94 per cent score on Rotten Tomatoes, is available to stream for free on Channel 4. The film, released in 2011, follows a working-class Glaswegian teen in the 1970s.
The story of John McGill
Written and directed by Scots icon Peter Mullan, Neds tells the story of a young working-class teen named John McGill growing up in Glasgow in the 1970s. John lives at home with an abusive alcoholic father and an older brother named Benny, who is the leader of a neighbourhood gang called the Young Car-D.
The film begins with John's transition from primary to high school, but despite being a brilliant student, the teen finds his life takes a drastic turn when he's caught up with conflict in his family and a gang-riddled neighbourhood. The title of the film, which is a Scottish slang word for hooligans, nods to the company John ends up surrounded by.
Cast and inspiration
Mullan plays John's father in his third feature-length film, which he said was loosely inspired by his own tough upbringing. He described the film as "personal but not autobiographical," with the emotional truths, harsh school system, and heavy atmosphere of street gangs capturing the setting of growing up in Glasgow at that time.
John is portrayed in different scenes by Gregg Forrest and Conor McCarron, while other cast members include Joe Szula, who plays Benny, and Gary Milligan, who plays fellow gang member Cantal.
Fan reception and streaming
Neds has impressed many film fans, scoring an impressive 94 per cent on Rotten Tomatoes. One viewer said: "MUST WATCH! Very underrated movie and not that know because it's not some Hollywood BS." Another added: "Easily my favorite indie film of all time. Absolutely excellent."
One fan wrote: "The best Scottish coming-of-age film ever! This vivid and realistic drama stands out among all others with its incredible performances, actuality, and wonderful writing. Peter Mullen has really created a work of art with this fantastic film!" Neds is available to stream for free on the Channel 4 website and app.
