Amidst the saturated landscape of the Ned Kelly Saga, filmmaker Darren K Hawkins, Actor Lauren Hamilton Neill, and Executive Producer Kieren Devisser have embarked on a new endeavor, unearthing a perspective long overlooked in the shadow of the Kelly legend. Their latest project, a script chronicling the life and death of Sergeant Michael Kennedy—one of the three policemen slain by the Kelly Gang at Stringybark Creek—is a departure from the traditional narratives surrounding the Kelly saga.
"This isn't just another overcooked Kelly film," Hawkins remarked. "We're aiming to shed light on a perspective that's been concealed from audiences for far too long."
Darrens journey began with a chance encounter—an episode of the documentary series Lawless, where Hawkins stumbled upon an interview with Leo Kennedy, the great-grandson of Sergeant Michael Kennedy. Moved by Kennedy's account of his ancestor's murder and its lasting impact, Hawkins delved into research, eventually sharing his vision with his colleagues.
With a shared passion for storytelling, Hawkins and Lauren embarked on a mission to shed light on the untold truths of the Kennedy saga. Drawing inspiration from Taungurung Cultural Tours and engaging with Indigenous perspectives, they emphasized the importance of historical accuracy and truth-telling in their script.
"Our film isn't pro-Kelly or anti-Kelly," Hawkins clarified. "It's pro-history. We want to share a side of history that hasn't been told."
Their journey has taken Darren to poignant locations, including Stringybark Creek, where the emotional weight of Michael Kennedy's murder was palpable.
"It was incredibly moving," Hawkins reflected. "It reinforced the importance of the story we're writing."
As they navigate the delicate balance between accuracy and creativity, Hawkins and his colleague are committed to honoring the legacy of those whose voices have long been overshadowed.
"We want to give them a chance to share their story," Hawkins affirmed.
Their project, still in its early stages, aims to spark conversations and challenge preconceptions—a testament to the power of storytelling in reshaping collective narratives.
"We're coming for you," Hawkins asserted, addressing those who choose to ignore the truths of history.
In a landscape dominated by the Kelly legend, Hawkins, Lauren & Devisser offer a beacon of hope—a reminder that the untold stories of the past deserve to be heard, respected, and remembered.
