Son of a Gun (2014)

Son of a Gun Poster

Locked up for a minor crime, 19 year old JR quickly learns the harsh realities of prison life. Protection, if you can get it, is paramount. JR soon finds himself under the watchful eye of Australia's most notorious criminal, Brendan Lynch, but protection comes at a price.

Film Overview
"Son of a Gun" is a gripping 2014 Australian crime thriller film composed and directed by Julius Avery. It combines elements of action, criminal offense, and drama capturing the intense, high-stakes world of crime and jail life. The notable cast consists of Ewan McGregor, Brenton Thwaites and Alicia Vikander providing remarkable performances.

Plot Summary
The story begins with JR (Brenton Thwaites), an ignorant 19-year-old, getting in a six-month sentence in a grim Western Australian jail where a jungle law dominates. Inside the jail, he meets Brendan Lynch (Ewan McGregor), an infamous felon and ends up under his defense. In exchange, JR needs to provide his services to Brendan upon his release.

When JR finishes his jail term, he joins the criminal outfit led by Lynch, which includes engaging in a bold jail break and planning a huge gold heist. Soon, JR fulfills and ends up being infatuated with Tasha (Alicia Vikander), a female related to Sam (Jacek Koman), who is an important player in the illicit gold deal.

Turning Point
As JR is drawn deeper into the world of crime, commitments and alliances in between the characters start to shatter, leading to a violent and unforeseeable series of events. JR quickly recognizes that Brendan's protection comes at an expense, and the life of the underworld is a lot more dangerous than it seems.

JR discovers himself captured in a hazardous love triangle with Tasha, including a psychological twist to the story. He begins to question his commitment to Lynch, and whether the criminal life he has entered deserves the danger and betrayal he comes across.

Conclusion and Themes
The film concludes with a thrilling gold break-in series where the characters' real intents and loyalties are exposed, resulting in a tense standoff. After a bloody and remarkable series of events, JR and Tasha handle to leave, leaving the life of criminal offense.

"Son of a Gun" masterfully depicts themes of survival, commitment, desperation, and redemption. The harsh prison environment, intense criminal activities and the constant physical and ethical dangers the characters deal with include a gritty realism to this high-stakes crime drama.

Last Reception
"Son of a Gun" was highly valued for its gripping story and powerful performances, particularly by Ewan McGregor and Brenton Thwaites. The movie presented an intense and engaging expedition of criminal activity, survival, and loyalty, making it a memorable entry in the Australian cinema. While it follows specific crime category conventions, the film's strong characterization, cautious pacing, and tense, captivating set pieces set it apart and left a lasting impression on audiences worldwide.

Top Cast

  • Ewan McGregor (small)
    Ewan McGregor
    Brendan Lynch
  • Brenton Thwaites (small)
    Brenton Thwaites
    JR White
  • Alicia Vikander (small)
    Alicia Vikander
    Tasha
  • Jacek Koman (small)
    Jacek Koman
    Sam
  • Matt Nable (small)
    Matt Nable
    Sterlo
  • Tom Budge (small)
    Tom Budge
    Josh
  • Nash Edgerton (small)
    Nash Edgerton
    Chris
  • Damon Herriman (small)
    Damon Herriman
    Private Wilson
  • Eddie Baroo (small)
    Eddie Baroo
    Merv
  • Marko Jovanovi? (small)
    Marko Jovanovi?
    Ken
  • Sam Hutchin (small)
    Sam Hutchin
    Dave