Irish-Language Film “Kneecap” Earns Two Oscar Shortlist Spots

The Irish-language movie “Kneecap” has received shortlisting for two Academy Award nominations. It is one of 15 films selected for the International Feature category at the 2025 Oscars, following its designation as Ireland’s official submission by The Irish Film and Television Academy (IFTA). Additionally, the group’s song “Sick in the Head” is among 15 entries shortlisted for Best Original Song. The movie portrays a semi-fictionalized narrative detailing the formation of the west Belfast rap group. The official nominations are scheduled to be revealed on 17 January, preceding the awards ceremony slated for 2 March in Los Angeles. “Kneecap” achieved significant success at the British Independent Film Awards (BIFA), securing seven accolades, notably Best British Independent Film. Rich Peppiatt was recognized with Best Debut Screenwriter, and Liam Óg Ó Hannaidh, Naoise Ó Cairealláin, and JJ Ó Dochartaigh collectively received Best Joint Lead. “Kneecap” advanced to the 15-film shortlist from an initial longlist comprising 85 films globally. During the nominations phase, Academy members from various branches can choose to participate, with the requirement to watch all 15 shortlisted films before casting their vote. Additional films on the International Feature shortlist include “Santosh” from the UK, “Emilia Pérez” from France, and “The Seed of the Sacred Fig” from Germany. Concurrently, 89 songs were initially eligible for the Original Song category, which Academy members narrowed down to 15. Other shortlisted songs feature Robbie Williams’ “Forbidden Road” from his biopic “Better Man”; “Winter Coat” by Saoirse Ronan and Nicholas Britell from the World War Two drama “Blitz”; and “Beyond” from the Disney animation “Moana 2.” Richard Williams, chief executive of Northern Ireland Screen, commented on the achievement, stating: “To make it onto an Oscar shortlist is no mean feat, 85 countries or regions submitted films that were eligible for consideration in the International Feature Film category.” He further expressed: “We are delighted to see Kneecap make the shortlist of 15. This is testament not only to the incredible talent and creativity of the filmmakers and performers but also to the rich storytelling potential of Northern Ireland.” The rap group Kneecap was established in 2017 by three friends known by their stage names, Mo Chara, Móglaí Bap, and DJ Próvaí. The trio has encountered criticism due to their politically-charged lyrics and their comfort with controversy, having previously stated they enjoy “to get people riled up.” The concept for a film originated in 2019 after director Rich Peppiatt observed the group performing in Belfast. Peppiatt, whose film was shot in Belfast and Dundalk, previously informed BBC News NI: “It’s definitely more controversial than the usual movies that come out of Northern Ireland.” The film, set in west Belfast in 2019, offers a dramatized, comedic portrayal of the group’s formation. It marked a historic moment as the first Irish-language film to premiere at the Sundance Film Festival, where it secured the NEXT audience award. Upon its premiere, the film garnered highly positive reviews, with The Hollywood Reporter characterizing it as “gleefully irreverent.” The Irish Film & Television Academy has chosen “Kneecap” to serve as Ireland’s entry in the International Feature Film category for the forthcoming 97th annual Academy Awards.