It always raises an eyebrow, when a new band (and Kneecap are still new to most) branch out into other mediums quickly. We’re programmed to think people should stay in their lane, but that’s not very Kneecap. This rap trio are, militant for want of a better word. This is their origin story. There’s drugs, despondency, absent fathers, police, paramilitary and the general struggles of being oppressed. They’re Irish you see. Very Irish, they rap in Gaelic, but that’s getting ahead. This, although an origin story of a band, is more than that. It’s the struggle of a people to retain their identity and language is important in that. Young Naorise and Liam (playing themselves) are taught at an early age the importance of language by Naorise’s dad, Arló (Michael Fassbender) a staunch Irish Republican. This bonds the pair, not just with each other, but with JJ (also playing himself). It’s gritty, urban concrete graffiti filled streets, local pubs and high-rise flats. Like Trainspotting, but more socially political. As the three start to work out the songs in JJ’s garage, their underground project starts to rear its head and word gets out. This gives JJ, who’s not only older, but a teacher, a problem. Their lyrics aren’t exactly PC and so, donning a balaclava in Irish colours, they take to the stage. Standing out I’ll say doesn’t seem to be a great thing to start. It brings them to the attention of squabbling paramilitary forces, the cops and the pro Irish language campaigners all of who struggle with anti British lyrics mixed with MDMA references. It’s a complex story, made accessible by some genuinely interesting people. Whatever you think of the politics, this is really engaging and a well made film, about a conflict that I think many think is in the past. I’m not a Kneecap fan, but the music is visceral and the beats are brilliant. They tell the story really well. This film doesn’t change my mind about them, but it does add a lot of context to the group and that undeniably makes them a much more interesting prospect.
6/10
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