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Ireland’s bold move: ‘Kneecap’ to represent at the Oscars
A groundbreaking choice for the 2025 Academy Awards
Ireland has made a significant move by submitting Kneecap to represent the country in the Oscars international feature film category. This early decision by the Irish Film and TV Academy showcases their confidence in a film that has already made waves at the Sundance Film Festival and beyond. Acquired by Sony Pictures Classics, Kneecap has been garnering praise at various festivals worldwide. The announcement coincided with the film’s U.S. release, and it is set to premiere in Ireland on August 8, where it is expected to break box office records.
The story behind ‘Kneecap’
Directed by Rich Peppiatt, Kneecap is a semi-autobiographical comedy that follows the Northern Irish hip-hop trio of the same name. The film captures their journey as they create a unique genre of Irish punk rap, blending Irish and English languages with electrifying energy. The trio, known for their outspoken and hard-partying lifestyle, become unexpected leaders of a civil rights movement to preserve their mother tongue, all while battling authorities, paramilitary groups, and their own substance abuse issues.
Meet the cast
The members of Kneecap—Mo Chara (Liam Óg Ó Hannaidh), Móglaí Bap (Naoise Ó Cairealláin), and DJ Próvaí (JJ Ó Dochartaigh)—play heightened versions of themselves in their first acting roles. They are joined by co-star Michael Fassbender, adding a layer of authenticity and star power to the film.
Cultural significance and personal reflections
Mo Chara expressed the honor of representing a culture that has faced brutal oppression, noting that the Irish language was nearly driven to extinction. He emphasized the privilege of showcasing their culture on the world stage. Móglaí Bap highlighted the film’s international appeal, encouraging viewers to reflect on their own cultures and languages. DJ Próvaí added a heartfelt message in Irish, expressing gratitude for the Oscar submission.
The selection process
Kneecap was chosen by a distinguished selection committee, including Oscar-nominated actor Stephen Rea, award-winning directors Colm Bairéad and Lisa Mulcahy, actors Liam Cunningham and Bríd Ní Neachtain, and producer Rebecca O’Flanagan. IFTA CEO Áine Moriarty praised the film for its bold storytelling and raw performances, noting its unique blend of Irish language and music.
The journey to the Oscars
Since its premiere at Sundance, Kneecap has received widespread acclaim. Writer-director Rich Peppiatt expressed gratitude for the film’s reception, particularly in Ireland. He acknowledged the privilege of representing the nation on the global stage and thanked IFTA and supporters of the film.
Critical acclaim
The film has been described as a “riotous, drug-laced triumph in the name of freedom,” bridging political substance with crowd-pleasing entertainment. Producers Trevor Birney, Jack Tarling, and Patrick O’Neill expressed their excitement about the Oscar submission, acknowledging the hard work and dedication of everyone involved in the film’s production.
The future of Irish filmmaking
The submission of Kneecap comes during a prosperous period for Irish cinema, following the success of The Quiet Girl, the first Irish-language feature to receive an Oscar nomination. There is hope that Kneecap will follow in its footsteps, despite concerns about its anti-establishment themes and political views.
Production and funding
Kneecap was produced by Birney and Tarling for Fine Point Films and Mother Tongues Films, with O’Neill at Wildcard as co-producer. The film received funding from Northern Ireland Screen, the Irish Language Broadcast Fund, Fís Éireann/Screen Ireland, the BFI, Coimisiún na Meán, TG4, Dias Feld, and Kamila Serkebaeva, with additional backing from Great Point Media.
Looking ahead
The Oscars international feature shortlist will be announced on December 17, with the final five nominees revealed on January 17, 2025. The 97th Academy Awards ceremony will take place in Los Angeles on March 3, 2025. As Kneecap continues to build momentum, it stands as a testament to the resilience and creativity of Irish filmmaking.
For more information and to watch the trailer, visit Kneecap.
This article aims to provide a comprehensive and engaging overview of Kneecap and its journey to the Oscars, enriched with personal reflections and in-depth analysis for cinema enthusiasts.
