The Irish Film & Television Academy (IFTA) has announced that Rich Peppiatt’s Kneecap, a fictionalised biopic of the eponymous Belfast rap trio, is to be the Irish submission for best international feature at next year’s Academy Awards.

The film, which stars the real-life members of the group – Liam Óg (stage name Mo Chara), Naoise Ó Cairealláin (stage name Móglaí Bap) and JJ Ó Dochartaigh (stage name DJ Próvaí) - playing themselves, tells the story of their rise to fame, from their early days in West Belfast to their international success.

Kneecap has already garnered critical acclaim, winning the NEXT Audience Award at the Sundance Film Festival, the first Irish-language film to do so. The film also won three prizes at the Galway Film Fleadh, including the Audience Award.

The film's success is a testament to the power of music and the importance of preserving indigenous languages. Kneecap is not just a story about a band, it's a story about the resilience of the Irish language and the fight for cultural identity.

The Story of Kneecap

Kneecap begins when Mo Chara is arrested for minor mischief and local teacher DJ Próvai – not yet wearing his tricolour balaclava – is called in to translate responses the suspect will deliver only in Irish. Those two come together with Móglaí Bap to form the rap-punk posse and soon find themselves at the head of a social movement.

The film explores the complexities of the Irish language and its history, as well as the challenges faced by young people in West Belfast. It’s a story of music, language, and identity, told with humour, energy, and a touch of rebellion.

A Film With a Message

Kneecap is a timely film, as it comes at a time when there is growing interest in the Irish language and its cultural significance. The film also highlights the importance of celebrating diversity and challenging the status quo.

Kneecap is more than just a movie; it’s a cultural phenomenon. The film’s success has helped to raise awareness of the Irish language and has inspired a new generation of young people to embrace their heritage. Kneecap is a powerful reminder that music and film can be powerful tools for social change.

Kneecap’s Global Appeal

Kneecap has resonated with audiences worldwide, proving that the story of a Belfast rap group can be universal. The film’s success is a testament to the power of music and the importance of preserving indigenous languages.

“It’s obviously great that films in the Irish language are having some kind of effect on people, you had An Cailín Ciúin and stuff,” Mo Chara remarked. “For a culture that was so brutally oppressed for so long, the language was almost driven to extinction, now it’s on the biggest stage of the world and it’s an absolute privilege.”

Mogali Bap acknowledged the film’s underreported inclusivity. “It’s an international story and makes people reflect on their own culture and language, and to consider the relationship they have with their indigenous or native language,” he said. “It comes at a time when people are looking for something with a bit more substance, a bit more intrinsic value.”

Kneecap's Road to the Oscars

Kneecap is a strong contender for the Oscar, and it will be interesting to see how it fares against the other nominees. The film has the potential to win the coveted award, and its success would be a huge boost for Irish cinema.

Kneecap will be on general release in Ireland from next Thursday, August 8th.

A Future for the Irish Language

Kneecap is a powerful reminder that the Irish language is alive and well. The film has inspired a new generation of young people to embrace their heritage and to use their voices to make a difference in the world. The success of the film is a testament to the power of music and the importance of preserving indigenous languages.

The film's success is a sign of hope for the future of the Irish language. It shows that the language is not just a relic of the past, but a vibrant and dynamic force that can be used to create new and exciting art.

Kneecap is a must-see for anyone who loves music, film, and Irish culture. The film is a powerful reminder that the Irish language is alive and well, and that it has the potential to inspire and connect people from all over the world.