Kneecap (2024)

Review Team

4/5

Kneecap is a refreshing and vibrant film that breathes new life into the representation of the Irish language and culture through hip hop. Directed by Rich Peppiatt, the film follows JJ, a Belfast teacher, who finds himself drawn into the world of Naoise and Liam Og, self-proclaimed 'low life scum' ... Show more >> Kneecap is a refreshing and vibrant film that breathes new life into the representation of the Irish language and culture through hip hop. Directed by Rich Peppiatt, the film follows JJ, a Belfast teacher, who finds himself drawn into the world of Naoise and Liam Og, self-proclaimed 'low life scum' who are passionate about saving their mother tongue. The performances are lively and genuine, particularly the musical numbers that are both entertaining and empowering. The film's exploration of identity and community is poignant, as it tackles the challenges faced by those fighting to keep their culture alive. While the pacing can occasionally falter, Kneecap ultimately delivers a heartfelt narrative that resonates with audiences. Its unique blend of music and message makes it a worthwhile watch. Show less

Editor Team

3.5/5

Kneecap is an intriguing film that mixes hip hop with a strong cultural message, but it doesn’t quite hit all the right notes. The story of JJ getting involved with Naoise and Liam Og has its highs, especially when they rap in Irish, which is a brilliant touch. However, the film sometimes struggles ... Show more >> Kneecap is an intriguing film that mixes hip hop with a strong cultural message, but it doesn’t quite hit all the right notes. The story of JJ getting involved with Naoise and Liam Og has its highs, especially when they rap in Irish, which is a brilliant touch. However, the film sometimes struggles with pacing and character development, leaving a few arcs feeling undercooked. The performances are passionate, and the music is infectious, but I found myself longing for deeper exploration of the characters' motivations. Despite its flaws, Kneecap shines a light on the importance of language and community, making it an enjoyable watch for those interested in cultural narratives. It's a film with heart, even if it stumbles along the way. Show less