About

'Kneecap' is a raucous, semi-fictionalised biopic of the three-man Irish-language Belfast hip hop band. The film traces its origin, when childhood friends and small-time drug dealers Liam and Naoise were inspired to start rapping by a local music teacher, who discovered Naoise's lyrics during a police interrogation whilst acting as an Irish-language translator. It then charts the band's rise from local obscurity to national recognition, highlighting how their provocative lyrics and raw performances antagonised all sides of the political and sectarian spectrum and led to a ban by RTE's Irish language radio station on the grounds of "drug references and cursing". The backcloth to all this were the marches and protests seeking official recognition for, and protection of, the Irish language in Northern Ireland.

As the trio navigate the challenges of fame, the narrative delves into themes of identity, cultural pride and the lingering impact of the Troubles. Through candid exchanges and vibrant concert footage, the film showcases the band's unique blend of irreverent humour and social commentary, allowing the audience to connect with the struggles and aspirations of a new generation.

The band members play themselves with some distinction and are ably supported by a handful of professional Irish actors, notably, Michael Fassbender and Simone Kirby. Because Kneecap are a real band, the music has an authenticity and vitality that fictional musical biopics struggle to replicate and the gigs themselves, whether in a near-empty pub or large arenas, are electric.

With definite vibes of Danny Boyle's Trainspotting, 'Kneecap' is highly original, hugely energetic, subversive and, at times, riotously funny. It is fast-moving and entertaining throughout, whilst making articulate, thought-provoking points about youthful rebellion, the unifying power of music and the preservation of a nation's heritage and culture.

No strangers to controversy, Kneecap successfully applied in 2023 for a £14,500 grant from the music export growth scheme, an independent government-backed arts initiative that provides funding to promote artists overseas. A panel of the British Phonographic Industry, which administers the scheme, approved the request, only for the then Business Secretary, Kemi Badenoch, to rescind it on the grounds of their Republican politics. Whilst appreciative of the publicity, the band successfully applied in June for leave to seek judicial review, and prior to the full hearing in November 2024, the government conceded (as it was bound to do) that Badenoch's decision was unlawful, discriminatory and procedurally unfair. The band donated the reinstated award, splitting it equally between two Belfast youth charities - one from a unionist area and the other from a republican area.

The film has received critical acclaim for its innovative storytelling and cultural significance and won the audience award at its world premiere at the 2024 Sundance Film Festival. Kneecap was was subsequently long listed for seven BAFTA Awards and shortlisted for the Best International Feature Film at the 97th Academy Awards.

Non-member tickets are £5 (full-time students £3) and can be purchased in advance from The Exchange's Box Office online at http://exchangetwickenham.co.uk/events, by telephone 020 8240 2399 or in person.

For further information on RFS and the programme of films, please visit
http://www.richmondfilmsoc.org.uk