Mad Bastards (2010)

In the heart of Western Australia, we meet Thomas, or TJ as he is affectionately known. Raised in a landscape of violence and substance abuse, TJ finds himself estranged from his family, his culture marked by aggression and disapproval. With no money to his name and a torn relationship with his incarcerated brother and disapproving mother, TJ embarks on a journey, hitchhiking to the far-flung Kimberley region. His destination is Five Rivers, the last known home of his wife Nella, whom he abandoned thirteen years prior, and their son Bullet, whom he has never met. On this quest, TJ is not only seeking to reconnect with his family but also confront his life of violence. The journey traverses the breathtaking Kimberley landscape, introducing TJ to a symphony of characters, who offer glimpses into a life infused with music, hunting, and community spirit. Unaware of the volatile life his son and wife have led in his absence, TJ is unaware that Bullet is spiraling down the same path of violence and recklessness, his latest act of arson landing him in a juvenile detention camp. Bullet, just a boy, lacks the maturity to comprehend the gravity of his actions and the cycle of violence he is perpetuating. His mother Nella, equally ensnared in this cycle, finds solace in alcohol and violence with her adult counterparts. The tumultuous life of Bullet and Nella is further complicated by the presence of local police officer Texas Wilcox. A man with a special connection to the mother and son, Texas is on a mission to break this cycle of violence, employing a men's group as a platform for discussion and resolution over fights. As TJ steps into this complex web of relationships, his reunion with Nella and his first encounter with Bullet are heavily influenced by Texas' interventions. On this journey, TJ is not only finding his family but also coming face-to-face with his past, his choices, and the violent legacy that threatens to consume the next generation. Whether he can mend these relationships and break the cycle before it's too late forms the crux of this riveting narrative.

Mad Bastards is a drama movie featuring Dean Daley-Jones and directed by Brendan Fletcher.

Mad Bastards is currently streaming for free (ad-supported) on Plex, Plex Player and The Roku Channel.

It is also possible to buy Mad Bastards on Amazon Video and Apple TV.