irishfilmtv.com

The Irish-language film KNEECAP has made history at the 27th British Independent Film Awards (BIFA), securing seven prestigious awards, including the coveted Best British Independent Film. The film, which dominated the ceremony at London’s Roundhouse, arrived with an impressive 14 nominations and emerged as the night’s standout success.

The movie, based on a semi-fictionalised account of the west Belfast rap trio’s formation, garnered additional accolades including Best Debut Screenwriter for Rich Peppiatt and Best Joint Lead for the trio’s members Liam Óg Ó Hannaidh, Naoise Ó Cairealláin, and JJ Ó Dochartaigh.

Originally formed in 2017 by three friends using stage names Mo Chara, Móglaí Bap, and DJ Próvaí, the group has been known for their politically-charged lyrics and controversial approach. The film’s origin traces back to 2019 when director Rich Peppiatt was inspired after watching the group perform in Belfast.

Set in west Belfast in 2019, KNEECAP offers a dramatised, comedic exploration of the group’s beginnings, with Peppiatt describing it as “definitely more controversial than the usual movies that come out of Northern Ireland.”

The film’s multiple BIFA wins represent a significant milestone for Irish-language cinema and the group’s artistic journey.