Kneecap

Naoishe 'Móglai Bap' Ó Cairealláin is born during a significant moment in his family's life. His mother, Dolores, hurries to introduce him to his father, Arlo, amid a sacred ceremony that brings joy to their small world.

The family's joy is short-lived as authorities disrupt the sacred ceremony, arresting Arlo due to alleged IRA activities. This incident marks a turning point for Dolores, leading her to isolate herself from the community.

As adolescence sets in, Liam and Naoishe find themselves entangled in the dangerous realm of drug dealing. This choice stems from their unresolved feelings about their upbringing and a need to assert their identities.

Many years later, Arlo disappears, having staged his own death to escape the law. Despite his absence, Naoishe develops a deep sense of Irish pride, yet struggles with resentment towards his father's abandonment.

A chaotic party leads to Liam's arrest, forcing Naoishe to flee the scene. This incident escalates their involvement with the authorities and deepens the rift between them and the law.

At the police station, Liam faces derogatory comments from officers who pressure him to abandon his Irish language. Detective Ellis intervenes, introducing teacher JJ, who connects with Liam's creative spirit.

JJ examines Liam's enigmatic notebook, filled with rap verses in Irish and acid tabs. He takes the notebook with Liam's permission, using its inspiration to fuel his own musical journey.

Liam and Naoishe meet JJ at an arcade, where they decide to collaborate on music. Embracing their Irish roots, they adopt the name 'Kneecap' and blend JJ's beats with their rhymes.

Kneecap gains traction after performing at a local pub, where their performance is captured on video. As their popularity rises, JJ grapples with balancing their musical success and his personal relationships.

Kneecap draws the ire of the Radical Republicans Against Drugs (RRAD) after their shows attract attention. This conflict escalates, putting them in a precarious position within their own community.

Excitement turns to despair when Kneecap returns to find JJ's garage burned down, destroying their work. This loss forces them to adapt quickly and record new music in secret.

As Kneecap prepares for their radio debut, their track is overshadowed by a rival's explicit song. Outrage from the community prompts mothers to rally for Kneecap, triggering a shift in publicity.

At a pivotal gig, Arlo unexpectedly reappears, leading to chaos when gunfire erupts. The tension peaks as RRAD members confront the boys, putting their lives at risk.

In the aftermath, Naoishe is confronted by RRAD members but is ultimately saved by Arlo. The boys embrace their creative identity, catalyzing personal growth and reconciliation within their community.

As Kneecap's music gains popularity, Dolores reconnects with her community, while Caitlin and Georgia focus on promoting the Irish language. The film closes with a poignant tribute to the decline of indigenous languages.