When fate brings Belfast teacher JJ to the self-confessed 'lean' Naoise and Liam Og, the hip-hop needle drops work like no other. Rapping in their native Irish, they lead a movement to preserve their native language. Ireland’s official submission for Best International Feature Film; 2025 at the 97th Academy Awards. Arló Ó Cairelláin: Every word spoken in Irish is a bullet fired for Irish freedom. Mentioned on the Film Junk Podcast: Episode 961: In a Violent Nature + TIFF 2024 (2024). Belfast, hosted by Orbital. I saw a knee-jerk reaction today at one of the UK’s best jam sessions. Interestingly, the entire audience (all 10 of us) were in their 50s and 60s, there was total engagement and no one left before the lights went up. I spoke to a group of about 5 people and they all agreed on how strong the film was. I lived and traveled in North Dakota and Ireland (like) in the early 80s, so I really appreciated the quality of the script. The acting was great and the dark humor was right up my alley. I’m not a big hip hop fan and you don’t have to be to appreciate the film, but I’ve always had a lot of respect for Eminem and Die Antwoord, and it’s clear to me that the latter clearly influenced the sound. and knee-high hats as a clothing style. I’ll get it on Blu-ray in time, but I think I’ll be the only one in the household who “gets it.” I hope my kids get at least some of the cultural references and enjoy the great soundtrack. If you get the chance, give it a go, because this film illustrates how great a work of art can be made with a very limited budget and authentic actors. Based on a true story.