A tracksuit at the Oscars? The rise of Kneecap and their cinematic journey

The unexpected question

“Has anyone worn a tracksuit to the Oscars?” This is not a question that Naoise O’ Cairealláin, better known as Móglaí Bap, ever thought he’d be pondering. As one-third of the Irish-language hip-hop group Kneecap, Bap is more accustomed to the anarchic energy of their music than the glitz of Hollywood. However, with the semi-fictitious biopic “Kneecap” gaining momentum ahead of its U.S. release on August 2, and potentially becoming Ireland’s international feature submission for the 2025 Academy Awards, the idea of donning his trademark attire at the ceremony isn’t entirely outlandish.

The attire debate

“We could do black tracksuits with white ties,” suggests bandmate JJ O Dochartaigh, also known as DJ Próvaí. The thought of incorporating their iconic Irish-tricolored balaclava into their Oscar ensemble is also on the table. “But we’d try to bring the RUC jeep to the Oscars with us,” he adds, referring to the Royal Ulster Constabulary’s controversial former state police force jeep, a symbol of their politically charged music and history.

The political statement on wheels

The RUC jeep, currently parked outside Galway’s Galmont Hotel, is more than just a vehicle. It’s a part-time tour bus and a motorized political statement. Adorned with Palestinian flags, stickers declaring “England Get Out of Ireland,” and a cage containing a fake police video camera, it’s a sight to behold. How it might be received on Hollywood Blvd. is another matter entirely.

From musicians to movie stars

An hour before our interview, Bap and Próvaí were atop the jeep in front of Galway’s Town Hall Theatre, holding flares billowing red smoke for photographers and a few die-hard fans. Their fellow band member, Mo Chara, was absent due to illness after months of touring Europe, including career-defining sets at Glastonbury. But today, they’re not just musicians; they’re movie stars.

The film that broke new ground

“Kneecap,” featuring the trio in their debut acting roles alongside Michael Fassbender, is a chaotic ride through working-class Belfast. Filled with sex, drugs, politically charged lyrics, and fierce Irish nationalism, the film broke new ground as the first Irish-language film to screen at Sundance. It quickly became a word-of-mouth sensation, won an audience award, and was picked up by Sony Pictures Classics. Now, it’s set for its most important screening yet: its Irish premiere at the Galway Film Fleadh.

A unique cinematic experience

Audiences worldwide have been drawn to the film’s in-your-face energy, likened to an Irish version of “Trainspotting.” Writer-director Rich Peppiatt, a former British tabloid journalist turned documentary maker, moved to Belfast in 2019 and was inspired by Kneecap’s unique phenomenon. Despite not understanding their lyrics initially, he was captivated by their spirit, music, and politics.

The origin story

Producer Trevor Birney, an Emmy-nominated documentary maker, played a crucial role in bringing Peppiatt and Kneecap together. After months of failed email attempts, Birney facilitated a meeting that led to a 12-hour all-nighter, solidifying their creative partnership. Peppiatt realized the potential in Kneecap’s story, representing a new generation of “Peace Babies” eager to reclaim their cultural heritage.

The creative process

The year-long task of writing the script involved numerous prolonged sessions with Ireland’s hardest partying rap group. Peppiatt endured these sessions, proving he wasn’t a cop and could keep pace with the band. The result is a film that captures Kneecap’s spirit and the vibrant, modern Ireland they represent.

The future of Kneecap

As “Kneecap” prepares for its Irish premiere, the band’s journey from musicians to movie stars is a testament to their unique blend of music, politics, and cultural pride. Whether they’ll wear tracksuits to the Oscars remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: Kneecap is a force to be reckoned with, both on stage and on screen.

For more on Kneecap, check out the trailer and stay tuned for their upcoming U.S. release.

Personal reflections

As a cinema and music enthusiast, the story of Kneecap is a fascinating blend of art and activism. Their journey from the streets of Belfast to the international film stage is a powerful reminder of the transformative power of music and film. The film “Kneecap” not only entertains but also challenges stereotypes and offers a fresh perspective on Irish culture. It’s a must-watch for anyone interested in the intersection of music, politics, and cinema.

For those who want to dive deeper into Kneecap’s music, their debut LP “Fine Art” is available on Spotify. It’s an album that captures the raw energy and political fervor of the band, offering a soundtrack to their cinematic journey.

In a world where art often mirrors life, Kneecap’s story is a compelling narrative of resilience, creativity, and cultural pride. Whether on stage, on screen, or at the Oscars, they continue to push boundaries and redefine what it means to be Irish in the modern world.# A tale of rebellion: The rise of Kneecap

The birth of a legend

In the world of cinema, few stories are as compelling as those that blend fact and fiction to create a narrative that resonates deeply with audiences. The film “Kneecap” does just that, weaving together the real-life experiences of Bap, Chara, and Próvaí, the trio behind the eponymous band, with a touch of creative storytelling. Their journey is not just about music but also about their staunch belief in the Irish language as a powerful symbol of identity and resistance against colonial oppression.

A mix of truth and imagination

Many of the film’s more outlandish elements are rooted in reality. For instance, Bap was indeed christened at an ancient Catholic site while a British army helicopter hovered overhead. Similarly, the school where Próvaí taught Irish did launch an investigation to determine if he was the balaclava-wearing musician behind tracks like “Get Your Brits Out.” However, some aspects are fictionalized for dramatic effect. In the film, Fassbender plays Bap’s father, a bearded former IRA man in hiding, whereas in reality, Bap’s father is Gearóid Ó Cairealláin, a playwright, journalist, and Irish-language activist.

Overcoming financial hurdles

Despite the enthusiasm surrounding the project, there were concerns about the film’s controversial content. The script, filled with drug references and provocative lines, made some financiers squeamish. However, the excitement for the project was palpable, and many were eager to support it, even if they tried—and failed—to get some of the more contentious lines removed.

Key partnerships and support

One of the first calls made by the film’s writer/director was to a longtime collaborator at an Irish-language public broadcaster, who immediately saw the potential and came on board as a TV partner. Another early supporter was the founder of a well-established Irish distributor, who made “Kneecap” the company’s first co-production credit. The film’s fresh language and representation of a growing subculture advocating for a united Ireland were irresistible.

In 2020, the script received development funding from a new initiative for U.K.-based filmmakers with non-English-language projects. This support brought on board several key players, including a producer, a co-producer, and a sales agent. Local film boards and the British Film Institute also provided funding, despite the controversy it stirred in some quarters.

Embracing notoriety

Kneecap has never shied away from controversy. The band first gained fame in 2017 when one of their tracks was banned by a major Irish radio station for drug references and cursing. They continued to make headlines in 2022 with a provocative mural in Belfast and a bold stunt at their LP launch in London. Their unapologetically outspoken nature and commitment to their political beliefs have made them a force to be reckoned with.

Standing by their principles

The band’s commitment to their morals and political beliefs is unwavering. In March, they pulled out of a performance at SXSW due to the involvement of weapons companies and sponsorship by the U.S. Army, a decision that had significant financial implications. This move underscores their dedication to their principles, even at the expense of their career ambitions.

The challenges of filmmaking

Producing “Kneecap” came with its own set of challenges, particularly the fact that the film was led by three individuals with no prior acting experience. To address this, the director enlisted the help of a theater lecturer in Belfast to train the band members. Despite their initial struggles, the training paid off, and they transformed from novices to capable actors.

The journey to the big screen

The band members even went sober for two months ahead of production to prepare for their roles. However, their hard work was nearly undone by a night of heavy drinking before the first day of filming. Despite these self-induced obstacles, the film’s production proceeded, with the support of a dedicated crew and the star power of Fassbender.

A lasting impact

“Kneecap” is more than just a film; it’s a cultural statement. The band’s refusal to compromise on their political messages, even when faced with pressure, speaks volumes about their integrity. They have banned the film from being sold or shown in Israel in protest over the attacks on Gaza, a gesture of solidarity that underscores their commitment to their beliefs.

A unique voice in cinema

The film’s premiere at the Tribeca Festival was a testament to its impact. Despite the sensitivity issues and the risks involved in producing a film with such controversial content, “Kneecap” has emerged as a powerful narrative that challenges the status quo and gives voice to a subculture that refuses to be silenced.

For those interested in exploring the world of “Kneecap,” you can watch the trailer here.

In the realm of cinema and TV series, “Kneecap” stands out as a bold and unapologetic exploration of identity, resistance, and the power of language. It is a film that not only entertains but also provokes thought and discussion, making it a must-watch for enthusiasts of compelling storytelling.# A new wave in Irish cinema: The rise of ‘Kneecap’

A unique blend of music and film

When the cast and crew of the film “Kneecap” gathered on set, there was a palpable sense of anticipation. The project, which began development just as the band Kneecap was starting to gain traction outside of West Belfast, has since become a cultural phenomenon. By the time the film was completed, Kneecap was already touring internationally, including in the U.S. The synergy between the band’s rising popularity and the film’s development was no accident. Strategic coordination between distributors and Kneecap’s label ensured that the releases of both the music and the film were perfectly timed.

A cultural mission

“Kneecap” is not just a marketing tool to boost record sales. It aligns with one of the band’s core goals: promoting the Irish language. Bap, one of the band members, emphasizes that the film is about representing a new identity and subculture. “In America, people are often shocked when they find out Irish isn’t just an accent!” he says. Kneecap has become a symbol for a language once thought to be in decline. Thanks to the band, learning Irish has become cool again, with teenagers speaking it and bands that previously sang only in English now writing Irish songs.

Emotional impact and audience connection

At a photoshoot in Galway, a young fan, visibly nervous, shared that she had recently spoken about Kneecap in her Irish oral exam. This emotional connection was evident at the film’s premiere, where many younger audience members admitted to getting teary-eyed, especially during the final scenes. The film captures an essence of their world, their stories, and their identity that they hadn’t seen in cinema before. “Kneecap” is expected to break records in Ireland when it opens on August 8, with the widest release ever for an Irish film.

The Oscars buzz

“Kneecap” is not just the most talked-about Irish-language film but also one of the most buzzed-about non-English-language films of the year. There are strong hopes that it could match the achievements of “The Quiet Girl,” which earned Ireland its first-ever nomination in 2022. However, some traditional voters may not resonate with the film’s anti-establishment tones, and the band’s outspoken views could be a stumbling block. But the Academy’s younger, more international members could help swing the vote.

A lasting impact

Whether or not “Kneecap” makes it to the Oscars, its impact on Ireland and Irish cinema is undeniable. “What Rich [Peppiatt] has done is grab the Irish film industry by the balls,” says Birney. The film, born out of a drink-and-drugs-fueled 12-hour session, may well end up being one of the most important sessions in filmmaking history. “Most all-night benders leave only a serotonin deficiency and regrets in their wake,” Peppiatt says. “My first night with Kneecap certainly fulfilled the former, but there sure ain’t any regrets.”

Discover more

For those interested in diving deeper into the world of “Kneecap,” you can watch the trailer and find more information about the film here.

Personal reflections for cinema, TV series, and music enthusiasts

As a cinema enthusiast, the rise of “Kneecap” is a fascinating case study in how music and film can intersect to create something truly unique. The film’s ability to capture the essence of a subculture and bring it to a global audience is a testament to the power of storytelling. For TV series fans, the success of “Kneecap” could signal a new wave of content that explores niche cultures and languages, offering fresh perspectives and narratives.

For music lovers, Kneecap’s journey from local band to international sensation is inspiring. Their commitment to promoting the Irish language through their music and film is a reminder of how art can be a powerful tool for cultural preservation and innovation. You can explore more of Kneecap’s music on Spotify.

In a world where mainstream media often dominates, “Kneecap” stands out as a beacon of originality and cultural pride. Whether you’re a fan of cinema, TV series, or music, there’s something in this story that resonates on a deeper level. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the most impactful art comes from the most unexpected places.