Kneecap: Will it be luck of the Irish for local Bafta nominees?
The west Belfast rap group Kneecap will find out on Sunday if it has bagged a British Academy of Film Award (BAFTA).The Irish-language film has been nominated in six categories.The film is based on a semi-fictionalised account of how the band was formed.Among other Irish talent nominated is actress Saoirse Ronan, and the Irish-produced Donald Trump biopic The Apprentice.
The awards ceremony, which is being hosted by actor David Tennant, is taking place between 19:00 GMT - 22:00 GMT at the Royal Festival Hall in London.
'Quite funny'
Kneecap are an Irish-speaking rap trio who have courted controversy with their provocative lyrics and merchandise.The film was written and directed by Rich Peppiatt and stars bandmates Liam Óg Ó Hannaidh (Mo Chara), Naoise Ó Cairealláin (Móglaí Bap), and JJ Ó Dochartaigh (DJ Próvaí), and also stars Oscar-nominated actor Michael Fassbender.The group was formed in 2017 by the three friends.Speaking ahead of the awards ceremony, the band described it as "quite funny" to be nominated for six categories for an award that celebrates the best British contributions to film."We were never in any doubt, and we never are when it comes to the art we create," they told BBC News NI.The film's been nominated for Outstanding Debut, Original Screenplay, Casting, Film Not in the English Language, Editing, and Outstanding British Film categories.It's already won seven British Independent Film Awards (BIFA) and other accolades. The rap group won its discrimination case against the UK government over a decision by then minister Kemi Badenoch to withdraw an arts grant in November 2024.
'Immensely proud'
Richard Williams, Chief Executive of Northern Ireland Screen, said: "I want to extend our huge congratulations to the entire team behind Kneecap on its incredible achievement. "This well-deserved recognition celebrates the creativity, hard work, and dedication that went into bringing such a unique and powerful story to life," he told BBC News NI. "We are immensely proud of the filmmakers and the spotlight this shines on the remarkable talent and vibrant storytelling emerging from Northern Ireland," he added.
'The green wave'
Saoirse Ronan has been nominated for Leading Actress for her role in the drama The Outrun.The film is about a young woman returning to her home in Orkney to deal with her past, and her addictions.Ronan says she learned lambing for the role. She's up against Wicked's Cynthia Erivo and Demi Moore (The Substance), among others.The Irish-produced Donald Trump biopic The Apprentice is nominated in three categories: Leading Actor, Supporting Actor and Casting.Ruth Treacy and Julianne Forde, from Tailored Films, said they are "incredibly honoured"."This recognition underpins the huge support that the film received in the UK and Ireland on its release. "We're very proud that Irish film and talent is represented so well with the nominations across the board this weekend. "Let's hope the green wave continues gaining strength in the year ahead!"You can watch this year's BAFTAs on BBC One and iPlayer.
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