By Travis Johnson
“I was drawn to Ben Hall because he has such a emotional and human story,” says writer and director, Matthew Holmes. “It’s not about an ‘event’ – it’s about real people with relatable problems. It’s about a man deeply struggling with his own choices and difficult circumstances. It’s about his relationship with his gang and those in his life. It’s a very character rich story.”
And thus, we’re getting The Legend of Ben Hall, starring Jack Martin as the titular bushranger who, in 1865, was shot dead by police after a lengthy career of robbery and general mayhem throughout colonial New South Wales. It’s the second feature for Holmes, who also wrote and directed Two Rivers back in 2007.
Although The Legend of Ben Hall is just the latest in Australia’s long legacy of bushranger movies, Holmes assures us we’re in for something different with his wild colonial tale. “The Legend of Ben Hall is unique in that it’s hard to find a film to directly compare it to. TLOBH has the grounded, realistic visual style and tone of The Assassination of Jesse James but mixed with the energy and colour of Tombstone. Ned Kelly and The Proposition are easy comparisons, but only because of the bushranger elements.”
The Legend of Ben Hall is only the first of a proposed series of bushranger films, dubbed The Legends Trilogy. Expect this first instalment in cinemas December 1, 2016.
Can’t wait, December can’t come fast enough, well done Will xxx
Just purchased this movie. Held our interest the whole time. The print is too small and goes away too quickly. The commentary states the part was cut out when Ben speaks of how he got in this situation. Big mistake. Overall a very good watch.