Sundance 2024

Kneecap is a wild, energetic film that cleverly blends humor, music, and cultural commentary. It tells the story of Liam, a low-level drug dealer whose refusal to speak English during an interrogation sets off a chain of events that leads to the formation of a groundbreaking Irish hip-hop group. Based on the real-life origin story of the trio Kneecap, the film delivers a gritty yet vibrant portrayal of friendship, art, and cultural rebellion.

At the heart of the story is Liam, who, when apprehended by the police (or "peelers," as they're referred to in the film), pretends not to understand English, claiming to only speak Irish. This leads the police to bring in JJ, a local school music teacher and Irish speaker, to act as a translator. But when JJ sees Liam's notebook full of Irish prose and lyrics, he's struck by the potential to create something new, pushing Liam and his friend Naiose into his garage to record tracks. What begins as a seemingly lighthearted, accidental foray into music turns into the genesis of an Irish hip-hop group that draws attention to their music and their rebellious activism.

The film is a fictionalized version of the Kneecap trio's real-life origin story, and it feels like a marriage between Trainspotting and A Hard Day's Night. Like the iconic 90s film, Kneecap captures the chaotic lives of a young, marginalized group navigating the underbelly of society, with an anarchic energy that sometimes confuses ketamine for cocaine. But the film also has the breezy, band-on-the-rise charm of A Hard Day's Night, especially as the trio stumbles upon success in unexpected ways. The fusion of these influences gives the film a sense of wild unpredictability and an endearing, rebellious heart.

The performances are refreshingly authentic, with the trio delivering impressive work both as musicians and actors. They inject the film with a raw, unpolished energy that feels true to their roots. Their interactions have a certain charisma, whether they're getting into trouble or stumbling upon musical success. The chemistry between Liam, Naiose, and JJ drives the film, with their banter and camaraderie lending the film its heart and humor.

It's easy to see why Kneecap won the audience award at Sundance. The film's infectious spirit and more profound messages about cultural preservation make it a crowd-pleaser. It's not just a celebration of Irish hip-hop—it's a celebration of Irish identity itself. If you're a fan of irreverent, music-infused films with a dose of rebellion, this one's highly recommended.

— 4.5 / 5 ⭐