Kneecap: The Irish-Language Biopic That's Making Waves

By Al Newstead

Topic: Hip Hop

Not every movie that showcases a wild, anti-establishment rap group and features cheeky jokes about *drugs* and *bare cheeks* yelling "Brits Out" snags awards at prestigious film festivals. However, Kneecap—a biopic chronicling the real-life Belfast hip hop trio—has proudly achieved this feat.

What: A dramatized biopic about the Belfast music group Kneecap, whose lyrics tackle themes of *sex, drugs,* and *politics* in their native Irish language.

Starring: Mo Chara, Móglaí Bap, DJ Próvaí, Michael Fassbender.

Directed by: Rich Peppiatt

When: In cinemas now

Likely to make you feel: *Hedonistic.* Combining the story-driven essence of "8 Mile" with the edgy flair and infectious soundtrack of "Trainspotting," this film bagged Sundance Film Festival's audience award back in January and is eyeing a spot on Ireland's shortlist for the 2025 Oscars.

Set against the intricate political backdrop of 2010s Belfast, Kneecap stands united, crafting tunes that echo the struggles of the working class while confronting police, radicals, and conservatives. Their journey to fame is nothing short of chaotic, peppered with *sex, drugs,* and *colorful language*. The trio—MCs Mo Chara and Móglaí Bap, along with DJ Próvaí—bravely portray heightened versions of themselves in their cinematic debut.

The buzz around the film has only intensified thanks to the release of their second album, Fine Art, which soared to the top 3 of the Irish and Scottish album charts this June. Following that success, their first Australian tour announced an extension of dates and upgraded venues to accommodate their eager