About Nitram

Nitram, a 2021 film, provides a sobering lens into the life events leading up to one of the most infamous instances of mass shootings in Australia's history. Directed by Justin Kurzel, the movie explores the life of Martin Bryant, who carried out the Port Arthur massacre in 1996.

Making / Production

The film's production involved a careful restructuring of an unspeakable tragedy without glorifying the perpetrator. The director, Kurzel, brought his intense and gritty filmmaking style to create a film that is both introspective and harrowing. The film was primarily shot in Geelong, Victoria, Australia.

Actors

• Caleb Landry Jones played the lead role of Nitram (Martin). He gave a chilling performance that understood the complexities of the character without any attempt for sympathy.
• Essie Davis, cast as Nitram's mother, gives a compelling performance highlighting her struggle with Nitram's escalating instability.
• Judy Davis played as Nitram's eccentric heiress friend, who provided him with weapons, adding nuances to her character's profound unawareness of the looming catastrophe.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The film's title "Nitram" is "Martin" spelled backwards, a nod to the real-life shooter Martin Bryant.
• The film has been the center of controversy due to its subject matter, with critics concerned about potential glorification of a mass shooting.
• "Nitram" is the first English language film of director Justin Kurzel take on at the Cannes Film Festival.

Awards

Despite some controversy, "Nitram" received widespread critical acclaim. Caleb Landry Jones won the Best Actor award at the Cannes Film Festival, marking the first time an Australian actor had ever won the prize.

Quotes

• "I just want to be loved, but I don't know how to do it"
• "Who says I can't do a job?"
• "I don't need your pity!"

Music, Soundtrack

• The film's score is composed by Jed Kurzel, Justin Kurzel's regular collaborator and brother. The score is eerie and dissonant, adding to the film's intense atmosphere.
• Although the film does not have an official soundtrack, the score plays a crucial role in creating a sense of escalating dread throughout the storyline.