Kneecap dominates the 2024 BIFAs with seven awards
Rich Peppiatt’s Kneecap was the standout winner at the 2024 British Independent Film Awards (BIFAs), held on December 8 at London’s Roundhouse in Camden. The debut feature about the Irish-language hip-hop trio Kneecap won seven awards, including best British independent film. Hosted by actor and comedian Peter Serafinowicz, the event celebrated achievements in independent filmmaking.
Kneecap also secured victories for best joint lead performance by Liam Óg Ó Hannaidh, Naoise Ó Cairealláin, and JJ Ó Dochartaigh, and best debut screenwriter for Peppiatt. At last week’s BIFA craft awards, the Belfast-set film added honors for casting, editing, original music, and music supervision. The film, which premiered at Sundance, is Ireland’s official entry for the Best International Feature category at the Oscars.
During his acceptance speech, Peppiatt acknowledged the irony of an Irish film winning best British film, while star Naoise Ó Cairealláin highlighted its broader significance, stating, "It wasn’t just about the Irish language; it was about indigenous and native cultures worldwide."
Other notable winners included Marianne Jean-Baptiste, who took home best lead performance for her role in Mike Leigh’s Hard Truths, and Franz Rogowski, who won best supporting performance for Andrea Arnold’s Bird. Jean-Baptiste paid tribute to Leigh, calling him “a dear friend and mentor.”
Rungano Nyoni won best director for On Becoming A Guinea Fowl, her follow-up to the acclaimed I Am Not A Witch. Nyoni’s film also secured the breakthrough performance award for Susan Chardy. Sandhya Suri’s Indian-set drama Santosh won best screenplay and breakthrough producer, further solidifying her presence in the independent film scene.
Sean Baker’s Anora, which won the Palme d’Or at Cannes, was named best international independent film. Baker humorously credited Take That for allowing the use of their song in the film, suggesting it played a role in the film's success.
The Richard Harris Award for outstanding contribution to British film was presented to Sophie Okonedo, recognized for her impactful career and commitment to challenging stereotypes in casting. A special jury prize was awarded to Fully Focused | The Million Youth Project, for their work empowering underrepresented communities.