Kneecap (2024) Movie Review: A Bold and Provocative Exploration of Irish Identity and Rebellion
The film Kneecap (2024) begins with a group of Belfast schoolchildren reluctantly singing the traditional Irish song “Óró Sé do bheatha abhaile” in their classroom. As they drone on, two boys in the back are secretly listening to hip hop, not just any hip hop, but music by the local trio known as Kneecap. This scene is a perfect setup for what follows: a dynamic, politically charged exploration of contemporary Irish identity, brought to life by the trio themselves—Liam Óg (Mo Chara), Naoise Ó Cairealláin (Móglaí Bap), and JJ Ó Dochartaigh (DJ Próvaí)—playing themselves in a semi-autobiographical narrative.
A Language Reclaimed Through Rebellion
Directed by Rich Peppiatt, Kneecap tackles the complex relationship between the Irish language and political identity in Northern Ireland. The Irish language, once nearly wiped out, has become a symbol of cultural resistance. Kneecap, formed amidst the debate over Sinn Féin’s proposed Irish Language Act, uses the language not just as a form of expression but as an act of defiance. Their music, infused with the raw energy of hip hop, reclaims Irish for a new generation. The juxtaposition of their vibrant, provocative lyrics with the fading traditions of the older generation is a recurring theme throughout the film.
The Storyline: A Mix of Reality and Fiction
The plot centers on two drug dealers, Liam Óg and Naoise Ó Cairealláin, who connect with a music teacher, JJ Ó Dochartaigh, and together they form Kneecap. Their music challenges the political authorities in Belfast, set against the backdrop of the city’s lingering post-Troubles tensions. The film captures the essence of Belfast, portraying it as a tough, working-class city where political expression remains fraught with danger. The trio’s music, performed entirely in Irish, becomes a form of cultural and political resistance.
The film’s portrayal of the city is complex, revealing a web of political and cultural interests with Kneecap at the center. The filmmakers skillfully blend humor and punk rock attitude with serious political insights, making the film both entertaining and thought-provoking. The visual style is equally dynamic, incorporating non-diegetic elements like illustrations and text that mimic Liam’s notebook scribblings. These stylistic choices add a layer of depth to the film, enhancing its punk rock ethos.
Critique and Limitations
However, Kneecap is not without its flaws. Like many musical biopics, it can be seen as a promotional piece for the band. The filmmakers, working closely with the band members, do not maintain a critical distance from their subject. The portrayal of the band members is somewhat sanitized, focusing on their rebellious, foul-mouthed personas while avoiding any deeper exploration of their personal flaws or contradictions. The film’s political message is also simplified, designed to keep the audience on the band’s side rather than provoke any real debate or reflection.
The Impact and Legacy of Kneecap
Despite these shortcomings, Kneecap stands out as a compelling musical biopic, comparable to films like The Doors and Straight Outta Compton. It captures the raw energy and blue humor of the band while providing a glimpse into the political and cultural landscape of contemporary Northern Ireland. The film doesn’t shy away from controversy, depicting Kneecap’s gleeful detailing of their drug use and their infamous “BRITS OUT” stunt, which sparked outrage among both the public and Irish language advocates.
In one particularly memorable scene, a newscaster comments, “This is the true face of the Irish language,” highlighting the tension between Kneecap’s rebellious image and the more traditional, conservative elements of Irish culture. Yet, despite the backlash, Kneecap’s music resonates with a new generation of Irish speakers, who see in the band a reflection of their own struggles and aspirations.
A Bold Cinematic Statement
Kneecap is a film that refuses to be pigeonholed. It’s a bold, frenetic, and unapologetically provocative exploration of contemporary Irish identity, set against the backdrop of Belfast’s turbulent history. The decision to have the band members play themselves was a risky one, but it pays off, lending the film an authenticity and immediacy that might have been lost with professional actors. The inclusion of seasoned actors like Michael Fassbender and Simone Kirby only adds to the film’s appeal, bringing out the best in the non-professional cast.
At its core, Kneecap is about the power of free speech and the right to challenge the status quo. It’s a film that will resonate with anyone who has ever felt the need to speak out against injustice, to rebel against the forces that seek to silence them. And, yes, it’s also about the freedom to write “BRITS OUT” on your butt cheeks if that’s what it takes to get your message across.
Where to Watch “Kneecap 2024” Online
For those interested in watching Kneecap 2024, the film is available on several streaming platforms and services:
Streaming Services
- Amazon Prime Video: Available for rental or purchase, offering various quality options.
- Apple TV: Provides the film for rental or purchase, ensuring high-definition streaming.
- Google Play Movies & TV: Offers options to rent or buy Kneecap 2024, catering to Android users and Google account holders.
- YouTube Movies: Allows viewers to rent or purchase the film, similar to other services.
