Kneecap make light of ‘handy’ acting business after film earns six Bafta nods
The film about the Irish language rap trio from Belfast has already been shortlisted for two Academy Awards.
Irish language rap trio Kneecap took a typically forthright swipe at the British establishment after a film about the Belfast band secured six Bafta nominations.
Writer-director Rich Peppiatt’s film about the hip hop group from west Belfast has been nominated in the categories of outstanding British film, outstanding debut, film not in the English language, original screenplay, casting, and editing.
The trio are outspoken Irish republicans and are well known for their stinging criticism of Britain’s historical involvement in Ireland’s affairs and the UK’s current role in governing Northern Ireland.
In a statement, band members Moglai Bap, Mo Chara and DJ Provai made light of the acting profession as they also made a pointed reference to Britain’s handling of the Irish potato famine of the mid-18th century.
“For long enough the British government has stolen Ireland’s treasures, and even our f****** food – there was no famine,” said the band.
“To be first-time actors and now get to hopefully go over and take a few bits back the other way is a nice change and long may it continue.
“Ireland taking British awards is f****** hilarious. This acting business is handy.”
The nominations come a day after the film earned 17 nods in categories at the Irish Film and Television Academy (IFTA) awards. In December the film was shortlisted for two Academy Awards.
Reacting to the Bafta nominations, Peppiatt said: “It’s a huge honour as a filmmaker to see your work recognised by some of the best in the business that make up Bafta.
“And the idea of Prince William handing an award to Kneecap is already the best thing that could happen in 2025, and it’s only January.”
Kneecap the film premiered at the Sundance Film Festival in January 2024, where it won the NEXT Audience Award.
One of the film’s producers, Trevor Birney, welcomed the recognition from Bafta.
“It’s not been a bad day in the Kneecap parish,” he told the PA news agency.
“At its heart the film is about the importance of protecting and celebrating the Irish language.
“The fact that the film has resonated way beyond Ireland’s shores tells us that we’ve struck a cultural chord with those who value indigenous languages around the world.
“We thank everyone who helped Rich Peppiatt make this such an amazing film and adventure. And it isn’t over.”
