The Irish-language film Kneecap has triumphed at the 27th British Independent Film Awards (BIFA), winning seven awards, including the prestigious Best British Independent Film.
Based on a semi-fictionalized account of how the west Belfast rap trio Kneecap was formed, the film also earned Best Debut Screenwriter for Rich Peppiatt and Best Joint Lead for band members Liam Óg Ó Hannaidh, Naoise Ó Cairealláin, and JJ Ó Dochartaigh.
Competing with 14 nominations, Kneecap dominated the ceremony held at London’s Roundhouse on Sunday evening.
Reflecting on the film’s global resonance, Naoise Ó Cairealláin, known as Móglaí Bap, shared, “There’s a lot of people who suffered under imperialism and colonialism… Minority languages, minority cultures getting their shake at the stake.”
Bandmate Liam Óg Ó Hannaidh (Mo Chara) added, “We thought it was a film about the Irish language, but languages that have been oppressed is an international story.”
He highlighted how the film’s themes resonate with marginalized communities, including Native Americans and Aboriginal Australians.
Director Rich Peppiatt recalled first encountering the band in 2019, impressed by their unique blend of politically charged rap performed in Irish.
“It didn’t really scream big movie potential… but there was something that just connected,” he said.
He emphasized the importance of promoting indigenous language and culture through storytelling.
Kneecap, filmed in Belfast and Dundalk, premiered at the Sundance Film Festival, winning the NEXT Audience Award and earning critical acclaim.
The Hollywood Reporter praised the film as “gleefully irreverent.”
The film has also been selected by the Irish Film & Television Academy to represent Ireland in the International Feature Film category at the upcoming 97th annual Academy Awards.
Its success highlights the global appeal of stories rooted in local culture and language, making it a landmark achievement for Irish cinema.
Also read: Kings Of Leon Tickets Go On Pre-Sale Ahead Of Cardiff Venue Approval
