Knuck & Knuckle is a short film born from Irish artist, Frank McCarthy’s collaboration with a group of Irish Traveller boys passionate about boxing but less drawn to visual arts. Frank introduced Paint Punch, a technique where participants strike paint onto boards to create abstract artworks, a process that quickly captured their engagement and motivation, which features in the film.
The film follows the story of Lee Reeves, an internationally acclaimed boxer from Southill, one of Limerick’s most disadvantaged areas. His journey, marked by resilience, grief, and mental health struggles, speaks directly to young men living on society’s margins. In conversation with music artist WILLZEE, Lee shares an honest exchange about growing up in a working-class estate, offering a rare insight into contemporary Irish life.
Directed by first-time filmmakers Ellie Marron and Sean Horgan, with cinematography by Marron, sound and score by Evan O’Malley, David Sheerin and McCarthy, plus vocals by teenage singer Rosie McCarthy. The film is produced by Frank McCarthy and Monica Spencer for The GAFF. Knuck & Knuckle was awarded Best Documentary Short at Limerick’s Catalyst International Film Festival in 2025.
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