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Irish-language music biopic “Kneecap” sweeps awards at Galway Film Fleadh
A triumphant homecoming for “Kneecap”
The 36th edition of the Galway Film Fleadh concluded with a resounding celebration of Irish cinema, as the Irish-language music biopic “Kneecap” dominated the awards. The film, which had already made waves at Sundance earlier this year, clinched three out of three possible awards it was eligible for at Galway. This unprecedented achievement included Best Irish Film, Best Irish Language Feature Film, and the Audience Award, marking a historic moment in the Fleadh’s 36-year history.
The story behind “Kneecap”
Directed by Rich Peppiatt, “Kneecap” chronicles the wild and anarchic rise of the real-life Belfast hip hop trio Kneecap. The trio, playing themselves, are joined by Michael Fassbender in a supporting role. The narrative is a heady mix of sex, drugs, music, and politics, serving as both an anarchic tale and a rallying cry for the preservation of native cultures and languages. The film, produced by Trevor Birney, Jack Tarling, and Patrick O’Neill, is set to open across the U.S. on August 2 and is already being touted as a strong contender for Ireland’s Oscar submission in the international feature category.
For more details and to watch the trailer, visit Kneecap Trailer.
Rich Peppiatt’s reflections
“For a film as dyed in the tricolor as ‘Kneecap,’ the Irish premiere was always going to be special and the audiences in Galway have blown us away,” said Peppiatt. “To be honored in the way we have at this beautiful festival is something we’ll never forget. Go raibh míle maith agat the Fleadh.”
Producer’s gratitude
Producer Trevor Birney added, “This is a huge endorsement, not only of Rich and ‘Kneecap’ but also of our cast and crew as well as the financiers who supported us all the way. It’s been an amazing week in Galway, and we thank Miriam [Allen] and the team for backing the film. Roll on the release so everyone can finally see this special film!”
Other notable winners at the Fleadh
The Galway Film Fleadh showcased a diverse array of talent, screening 94 feature films and 100 short films over six days. Among the other notable winners were:
- “Fidil Ghorm”: Directed by Anne McCabe, this film won Best Irish First Feature. Fidil Ghorm Trailer
- “Housewife of the Year”: Directed by Ciaran Cassidy, this documentary won Best Irish Documentary Award. Housewife of the Year Trailer
- “The Teacher”: Directed by Farah Nabulsi, this film won Best International Feature. The Teacher Trailer
- Eva Birthistle: The “Bad Sisters” star won the New Talent Award for her directorial debut “Kathleen Is Here.” Kathleen Is Here Trailer
A festival to remember
The Galway Film Fleadh has once again proven to be a fertile ground for showcasing the best of Irish and international cinema. The success of “Kneecap” and other films at the festival highlights the rich tapestry of stories and talents that continue to emerge from Ireland. As the festival draws to a close, the anticipation for the wider release of these films grows, promising to bring these compelling narratives to a global audience.
The journey of “Kneecap” from Sundance to Galway and beyond is a testament to the power of storytelling and the universal appeal of music and culture. As the film prepares for its U.S. release, it carries with it the hopes and pride of a nation, ready to share its unique voice with the world.
