With “The True History of the Kelly Gang” impressing folks earlier this year, people are eagerly anticipating whatever is next for filmmaker Justin Kurzel. And apparently, the director is sticking to more Australian historical events for his upcoming film, “Nitram.”
According to Deadline, Kurzel has lined up Caleb Landry Jones, Judy Davis, Essie Davis, and Anthony LaPaglia to star in his next film, titled “Nitram.” The film is based on the 1996 Port Arthur massacre, which is one of the worst crimes in Australian history that saw a mass shooter kill 35 people and injure another 23. “Nitram” is scripted by Shaun Grant, who previously collaborated with Kurzel on “The Snowtown Murders” and “The True History of the Kelly Gang.”
Though the other three actors are all great and will no doubt impress in Kurzel’s feature, the big draw is clearly Caleb Landry Jones. In his relatively short career, Jones has impressed in features such as “Get Out” and “Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri.” He’s also appeared in films such as “The Dead Don’t Die,” “Tyrel,” and “The Florida Project.” He has yet to find the role that really makes him a true superstar, but he’s consistently appeared in interesting roles, often stealing scenes with his intensity. And though it’s not explicitly said in the report which role he’ll have in “Nitram,” judging by the real-life events and his slight resemblance to the person, it would make sense that he plays the murderer, Martin Bryant.
As mentioned, Kurzel recently released “The True History of the Kelly Gang,” which marked a solid follow-up to what many believe to be the filmmaker’s lowest point, the video game feature, “Assassin’s Creed.” In addition to “Nitram,” he’s also involved in the upcoming Apple TV+ series, “Shantaram” and still has a feature with Margot Robbie in development, titled “Ruin.”
While a release date is not yet known, “Nitram” is expected to premiere at the 2021 film festival.