One of the rising stars of film George MacKay has spoken about his affinity to Celtic people ahead of his role as legendary outlaw Ned Kelly.
MacKay starred in the movie True History of the Kelly Gang and spoke about the challenge he faced in understanding his historic character.
Firstly, MacKay revealed that the director Justin Kurzel asked the cast to transform themselves into a punk band, as he felt that would encapsulate the spirit of the gang.
MacKay explained that he and his co-stars had to work together to write and practice some songs and perform a gig in front of thousands of people.
The young star said: “The energy of that experience, and the punk energy aswell, that was kind of the core of the film.”
The story of Ned Kelly is one that many of us would have learned about in school.
However, if you are not familiar with the story, Ned Kelly was the son of an Irishman who had been sent to Australia for the crime of stealing two pigs.
Kelly grew up resenting the authorities that had punished his family so severely and became an outlaw in the Australian bushlands.
He eventually became a notorious criminal and was convicted of murdering police officers in Australia.
His legend is one that divides opinion, with some considering him a cold-blooded killer but others thinking of him as a national hero for fighting back against the skewed justice system.
MacKay admitted it was a huge role to take on, but one that he just couldn’t turn down.
The British star, also revealed that in preparation for the film he travelled to Tipperary to immerse himself in Irish culture and learn as much as he could about Irish history.
Take a look at the interview in full below.
