Watch Mad Bastards

Mad Bastards is a 2010 Australian film directed by Brendan Fletcher which explores themes of family, masculinity, and intergenerational trauma. The film is set in the Kimberley region of Western Australia, and follows the story of TJ, a troubled man who returns to his hometown seeking to reconnect with his estranged son, Bullet. Throughout the film, we see TJ struggling to come to terms with the legacy of violence and addiction that has defined his family for generations. As he tries to rebuild his relationship with Bullet, he meets Texas, a local police officer who has his own demons to confront, and Pretty Boy, a young man who is caught between the contrasting worlds of traditional Aboriginal culture and the urban lifestyle.

One of the most compelling aspects of Mad Bastards is the way in which it explores the complex dynamics of masculinity in Indigenous communities. The film portrays a range of male characters who are all struggling to navigate the expectations placed upon them by society, their families, and their own personal demons. We see TJ trying to break the cycle of violence and addiction that has defined his family for generations, while Texas is haunted by the memory of his dead son and the knowledge that he was unable to protect him. Meanwhile, Pretty Boy is torn between his desire to be accepted by his peers and his deep connection to the traditional ways of his people.

The film also examines the impact of intergenerational trauma on Indigenous communities, particularly the legacy of colonialism and the forced removal of children from their families. These themes are explored through flashbacks that show TJ's own painful childhood, as well as his father's experiences as a Vietnam War veteran.

One of the most striking things about Mad Bastards is its use of music. The film features a number of original songs by the acclaimed Australian singer-songwriter Alex Lloyd, which provide a poignant and emotional backdrop to the story. In one particularly powerful scene, Lloyd performs a song he wrote specifically for the film, accompanied only by the sounds of the surrounding landscape.

Overall, Mad Bastards is a powerful and affecting film that provides a nuanced and complex portrait of Indigenous masculinity and intergenerational trauma. The performances by the cast, particularly Dean Daley-Jones in the lead role of TJ, are excellent, and the film's cinematography captures the stunning beauty of the Kimberley region. The soundtrack, featuring original songs by Alex Lloyd, is a highlight and adds emotional resonance to the story. In short, Mad Bastards is a must-see film for anyone interested in Australian cinema or Indigenous issues.

Mad Bastards is a 2010 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 34 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.6.