Following its global debut last week, the film announced at the Utah Film Festival that Sony Pictures Classics has agreed to give it a significant international distribution agreement.

The film, which centres on the beginnings of the boisterous Irish-language rap group Kneecap, features Michael Fassbender with debut performances by Mo Chara, Moglai Bap, and DJ Provai.

The film, according to its promoters, is set in west Belfast in 2019 and tells the story of how the three meet by fate and go on to “change the sound of Irish music forever.”

During the festival, the movie Kneecap won the Next audience prize.

“There's a saying in Irish - Ni mhaireann solas na maidine don la - which means no morning sun lasts all day,” explained writer and director Rich Peppiatt.

“Well, that wisdom has definitely been put to the test by the incredible week we've had here at Sundance since our film's premiere, and we're savouring every minute.”

“We are delighted to have such an award bestowed upon the first Irish-language film at Sundance,” the band stated in a statement.

“Perhaps it will inspire Irish people to pursue their native tongues in the arts with confidence.”

Produced by Jack Tarling and Trevor Birney for Fine Point Films and Mother Tongues Films, Kneecap also had co-producer Patrick O'Neill from Wildcard.

With support from Great Point Media, the film was financed by Northern Ireland Screen, the Irish Language Broadcast Fund, Screen Ireland, the BFI, which awarded National Lottery money, Coimisiun na Mean, and TG4.

Later this year, it will be released in theatres.