Preserving the mother tongue is important, as it allows a language to not only be remembered but to be passed on to the next generation. It’s a well-known fact that larger countries often push their own languages, which slowly erodes native languages. How does it help that we cherish one and want to destroy the other?

“Kneecap” offers the story of a fighter larger than life, a victory achieved through collective action. It is a lively and engaging film that chronicles the rise of a rebellious Irish-language rap group from West Belfast. Directed by Rich Peppiatt, this film blends political energy with comedy to create an entertaining story about cultural pride, defiance, and perseverance.

The film centers around childhood friends Naoise (Naoise Ó Caireallain) and Liam Óg (Liam Óg Ó Hannaidh), who grow up in post-Good Friday Agreement Northern Ireland. They are inspired by Naoise’s father, Arlo (Michael Fassbender), a legendary IRA figure who instilled in them the belief that “Every word of Irish spoken is a bullet for Irish freedom.” With Arlo absent and presumed dead, and Naoise’s mother (Simone Kirby) becoming a recluse, the boys find themselves lost in the club scene, dabbling in drugs.

Their lives take a turn when Liam Óg is arrested and categorically refuses to speak English. Music teacher JJ (JJ Ó Dochartaigh), a gentle and composed man, steps in as a translator and discovers potential in Liam Óg’s rebellious writings. Together, they form the rap group Kneecap, with JJ as their masked DJ. What starts as a pub act quickly becomes a movement, drawing both fans and the ire of authorities. This garners attention from every angle of society, including politicians.

The entire cast delivers standout performances, but the real stars are the trio themselves. Naoise, Liam Óg, and JJ bring authenticity and energy to their roles, making the story feel both personal and impactful. Ó Dochartaigh’s portrayal of JJ is particularly noteworthy, balancing the character’s mild-mannered exterior with a rebellious spirit. This is what we call an organic performance. Rich Peppiatt’s direction is sublime and energetic. The film is filled with music and quick edits, keeping the pace lively and engaging. It paints a stark image of Irish patriotism, suggesting that if it persists in every country, no outside power can ever defeat it.

“Kneecap” tackles themes of cultural identity, rebellion, and the power of language. The film portrays the struggle for Irish-language recognition as both a personal and political battle. The characters’ journey from miscreants to cultural icons highlights the transformative power of art and defiance. It is a must-watch for its unique blend of humor, politics, and music. It’s a film that celebrates Irish culture and language with a rebellious spirit and a sense of fun, carrying an important message: do not forget who you are, even if the whole world asks you to.

Related