October 24th 2024.
Kneecap, the Irish-speaking film that made waves at Sundance, is now gaining a surprising following in India. Fans are eagerly awaiting its release on Prime Video on November 15, with some even queuing outside cinemas to catch the flick. This comedy-drama, written and directed by Rich Peppiatt, follows the real-life hip-hop trio Kneecap as they navigate fame and controversy in their hometown of Belfast. Alongside the trio, the film features talented actors such as Josie Walker, Fionnuala Flaherty, Jessica Reynolds, Adam Best, Simone Kirby, and Michael Fassbender in supporting roles.
Premiering at Sundance in January, Kneecap became the first Irish language film to do so, receiving rave reviews from critics. On Rotten Tomatoes, it currently holds an impressive 97% on the Tomatometer. Set in the late 2010s, the film introduces us to Liam Ó Hannaidh and Naoise Ó Cairealláin, two friends who form Kneecap after a chance encounter with a music teacher. When Liam is arrested at a party and can only communicate in Irish, the teacher helps to interpret for the police and discovers Liam's talent for writing lyrics.
As Kneecap's fame grows, so does the chaos surrounding them. What starts as a musical endeavor soon turns into a political statement, resulting in threats, bombs, and even kidnapping. Despite being a work of fiction, the band's real-life counterparts have also faced controversy for their political lyrics and drug references. However, they defend their art as being meant to challenge and provoke thought, often using humor and satire in their music.
Recently, pictures have emerged on social media of fans in India queuing outside screenings of Kneecap at the Mumbai Film Festival. The band's manager, Daniel Lambert, shared a photo of the long line of eager fans. While the film may be fictional, the band, formed in 2017, is very much real. Made up of three friends who go by the stage names Mo Chara, Móglaí Bap, and DJ Próvaí, Kneecap has gained a dedicated following for their unique style and provocative lyrics.
Despite their success, the band has faced challenges, including being denied a grant by the UK government due to their political views. However, they remain unapologetic, stating that their art is meant to be playful and thought-provoking. As Móglaí Bap stated in an interview with the BBC, "If you're offended by it, then you're just not getting the joke." The band continues to push boundaries and gain fans around the world, proving that their unique blend of humor and social commentary is resonating with audiences.
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