The hit film about Belfast Irish-language rapper Kneecap is set to be released in cinemas across Africa, with the distributor saying the film’s “anti-colonial sentiment” will resonate with audiences. There is.
The film, directed by Rich Peppiatt, will be shown in 38 countries on the African continent starting in early December, following a multi-territory deal with international distribution company What the Hero Wants.
Target countries include South Africa, Ethiopia, Madagascar and Zimbabwe.
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Starring Kneecap's Liam Og O Annaid (Mo Challa), Naiz O Caialine (Moghlai Bap) and JJ O Dochartai (DJ Provai) as themselves, the group’s rise to fame is told. The semi-fictional comedy was released in cinemas in Ireland, the UK and the US. It was released in August and has so far grossed over $4 million at the global box office.
In a statement, Aryan Trivedi, co-chief executive officer of What the Hero Wants, said acquiring Kneecap for African films was an “easy decision.”
"This is exactly the type of movie that we not only want to release, but we want to see ourselves,” he said.
“It’s bold, it’s fun, it’s intelligent and it has something to say. And we believe what this film says is what many African viewers want to hear. ”
The distributor said African moviegoers would appreciate the film’s “preservation of indigenous languages” and “anti-colonial sentiment.”
“Knee Cap” will also be available on Amazon Prime Video starting next month.
The film, which also stars Michael Fassbender, was selected by the Irish Film and Television Academy as Ireland’s entry in the international feature film category at the Oscars.
Kneecap will be available to watch on Prime Video in the UK and Ireland from Friday 15th November.
Hollywood trade publication Variety has listed the film as a possible shortlist for the Oscar nominations, which will be announced in December.
“Kneecap” had its world premiere at the Sundance Film Festival in Utah, USA, in January, where it won the coveted Audience Award.
