About this movie
Meth Kelly explores how Australia’s colonial frontier narrative has been shaped by the imaginary heroic actions of the cult figure Ned Kelly. Through a video work projected in one of the shadowy tunnels of the ex-convict structures at Cockatoo Island, this work questions the legitimacy of Kelly’s hero status through a modern reinterpretation of his moral persona. Thornton skews the national narrative rooted in the romance of a Western, by transforming Kelly into a “meth head robbing a 7 Eleven”, placing him in a banal (sub)urban delinquent realm, far removed from cult status. Commissioned by the Biennale of Sydney.
Quick facts
Your reaction
Questions about Meth Kelly
📲 Send the link to a WhatsApp or Telegram group.
Once someone clicks it, your access is unlocked automatically.
Unlocking share options…
Checking activity...
Still waiting…
You can leave safely — we'll keep checking.
Link clicked! Access unlocked.
🎬 Share to your group — instant access, no sign-up required
