Knuckle (2011)

Director Ian Palmer

An epic 12-year journey into the world of an Irish Traveller community, Knuckle takes us inside their secretive and exhilarating bare-knuckle-fighting lives. The rules are no biting, head-butting or below-the-belt punches. There are no rounds or breaks and the fight goes on until one man gives up or is knocked out. Chronicling a history of violent feuding between families, the film follows James Quinn McDonagh and his younger brother Michael as they fight for their reputations and the honour of their family name. Shot in an observational style, Knuckle gives a hard-edged portrait of Traveller male culture and explores the bonds of loyalty, the need for revenge and the pressure to fight. Vivid, violent and funny, Knuckle gains unique access into the fighting culture of a hidden, contemporary community. - Galway Film Fleadh