Ted K

Movie Trailer

Release Date
February 18, 2022

Genre
Biographical, Crime, Drama

Cast & Crew

• Sharlto Copley as Ted Kaczynski
• Drew Powell as Cowboy
• Amber Rose Mason as Becky
• Christian Calloway as John
• Travis W Bruyer as Officer Gary
• Tahmus Rounds as Ted’s Brother (voice)

Director
Tony Stone

Other Movies Director is Known For

• Severed Ways: The Norse Discovery of America (2007)
• Peter and the Farm (2016)

Producer
Matt Flanders, Tony Stone, Ryan Stenzel, Dmitry Fiks

Writer
Tony Stone, Gaddy Davis, John Rosenthal

Budget
$5 million (estimated)

Production Company
Dekanalog, Heathen Films, The Bubble Factory

Running Time
120 minutes

Languages
English

Maturity Rating
R

Content Advisory

• Graphic violence
• Disturbing content
• Strong language
• Themes of terrorism and mental illness

Movie Story
“Ted K” is a biographical crime drama that delves into the life of Ted Kaczynski, also known as the Unabomber, a reclusive figure who conducted a 17-year-long domestic terrorist campaign in the United States, primarily through a series of bombings that targeted individuals involved with modern technology. The film offers an intimate and disturbing portrait of Kaczynski’s life in the remote mountains of Montana, where he lived in isolation while meticulously planning his attacks.

The movie follows Ted (Sharlto Copley) as he becomes increasingly disillusioned with modern society and technology, which he believes are destroying the environment and dehumanizing mankind. His frustration grows into a deep-seated anger that eventually drives him to violence. Through Kaczynski’s own writings, which are interwoven with the narrative, the film explores his ideology, his justifications for violence, and his descent into madness.

“Ted K” is not a typical biopic; it eschews a straightforward narrative in favor of a more psychological approach, focusing on Kaczynski’s solitary life, his interactions with the outside world, and his internal struggles. The film captures the haunting beauty of the Montana wilderness, juxtaposing the serenity of Kaczynski’s surroundings with the chaos he unleashes. Sharlto Copley delivers a chilling performance, embodying both the calm and the fury of a man who would become one of America’s most notorious domestic terrorists.

Special Effects
The film uses minimal special effects, focusing instead on creating an immersive atmosphere through its cinematography and sound design. The stark, isolated landscapes of Montana are captured with a sense of foreboding, while the sound of nature and Kaczynski’s increasingly paranoid thoughts contribute to the film’s unsettling tone. The bombings, when depicted, are portrayed with a disturbing realism that underscores the horror of Kaczynski’s actions.

Box Office Performance
“Ted K” had a limited release in theaters and on digital platforms. The film received positive reviews for its atmospheric storytelling and Sharlto Copley’s intense performance. While its niche subject matter limited its mainstream appeal, the movie garnered attention at film festivals and among critics who praised its uncompromising depiction of Kaczynski’s life and mind.

Filming Locations

• Lincoln, Montana, USA

Notable Quotes

• “I will fight until my last breath to destroy the system that is killing the Earth.” – Ted Kaczynski
• “Civilization has brought us nothing but misery and madness.” – Ted Kaczynski

Behind-the-Scenes
Director Tony Stone sought to create an authentic portrayal of Kaczynski’s life by filming on location in Montana, near where the real Kaczynski lived. The script draws heavily from Kaczynski’s own writings and manifestos, providing insight into his thoughts and motivations. Sharlto Copley’s transformation into Kaczynski involved extensive research and a deep dive into the character’s psyche, resulting in a performance that is both haunting and compelling.

Awards

• N/A

Final Verdict
“Ted K” is a gripping and unsettling biographical drama that offers a deep psychological exploration of one of America’s most infamous domestic terrorists. Sharlto Copley’s portrayal of Ted Kaczynski is powerful and disturbing, capturing the complexity of a man whose hatred of modern society led him to commit horrific acts of violence. The film’s atmospheric visuals and sound design add to the tension, making “Ted K” a thought-provoking and haunting cinematic experience. While it may not be for everyone, particularly due to its dark subject matter, it is a compelling study of madness, isolation, and the destructive power of ideology.

IMDb Rating
6.1/10