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Knuckle is a 2011 documentary film that explores the world of Irish traveller bare-knuckle boxing. Directed by Ian Palmer, the film follows two feuding clans, the McDonaghs and the Joyces, as they engage in bare-knuckle fights that have been a part of their culture for centuries. The documentary begins with a formal challenge from the Joyces to the McDonaghs, inviting them to engage in a series of fights that will settle a dispute that has been simmering for several years. The film then follows James Quinn McDonagh and his extended family as they travel to various locations throughout Ireland to compete in these fights.

Throughout the film, we see the intense physical toll that the fights take on the fighters, as their faces are often bloodied and bruised by the end of each match. We also see the impact that these fights have on the families involved, as they struggle to keep their loved ones safe while also supporting their desire to participate in this dangerous sport.

As the fights progress, tensions between the two families continue to rise, and the film explores the complex social and cultural dynamics that underpin these feuds. At various points, the fighters reflect on their motivations for participating in these fights and the role that this tradition plays in their lives.

However, the film is not just about the fights themselves. Knuckle also delves into the personal lives of its subjects, with intimate scenes of family gatherings, conversations with loved ones, and moments of reflection on their own lives. Through these scenes, the film humanizes its subjects and emphasizes the deep bonds of family and community that underpin this world.

As the film approaches its conclusion, tensions between the McDonaghs and the Joyces ultimately reach a boiling point. The final fight is intense and emotional, with both sides putting everything on the line for their family's honor. The film ends on a poignant note, with the fighters and their families reflecting on the impact that this conflict has had on their lives.

Overall, Knuckle is a gripping and emotional documentary that offers a unique look into a world that is often hidden from view. Through its intimate portrayal of the lives of its subjects, the film sheds light on the complex and rich culture of Irish travellers and the traditions that have sustained them for generations.

Knuckle is a 2011 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 37 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.8 and a MetaScore of 65.