Kneecap

 

“Every word of Irish spoken is like another bullet being fired in the struggle for Irish freedom.”

Bombastic, unabashed and brash, Kneecap is a blast of underdog energy that delivers a unique and refreshing music biopic that melds northern Irish pride, politics and hip-hop featuring the band playing themselves to great comedic and dramatic effect, in an energetic and propulsive film that’s loud and proud of it. 

Discussion Points:

Whilst I certainly don’t agree with everything that the rap group Kneecap supports (mainly the excessive drug use) I am incredibly supportive of advocates of indigenous languages being recognised and taught in their native lands. The Irish language deserves equal recognition with English in Northern Ireland, and for to only have happened in 2022 is surprisingly recent. Some of that history can likely be credited to the rap group Kneecap who’s use of the Irish language ignited a new passion for the tongue in a younger generation now free from The Troubles to more openly explore their Irish identity. It’s always a risky move having real-life figures portray themselves in biopics (see The 15:17 to Paris) but here it works so incredibly well as Mo Chara, Móglaí Bap and DJ Próvaí play themselves so earnestly and effectively. Add some memorable supporting players, and a scene-stealing Michael Fassbender, and it all combines to tell a powerful underdog story of three rap artists who fought the system and championed a cause close to their hearts with passion and propulsive energy. The filmmakers carry that passion and energy into the editing, writing and direction to deliver a truly engaging and provocative pulse-pounding music biopic. Strongly recommend for anyone who is a fan of rap music or interested in the more recent political landscape of Northern Ireland.