Teenage Kicks (film)

Teenage Kicks is a 2016 Irish coming-of-age drama film directed by Declan Lawn and Louise Gallagher. The film is set in Derry, Northern Ireland, in 1993, against the backdrop of the Troubles. It follows the story of Conor Masterson, a seventeen-year-old Catholic boy who accidentally kills his abusive father. Overwhelmed by guilt and the fear of societal judgment, Conor struggles to cope with his actions and the ensuing consequences.

The film explores themes of grief, guilt, masculinity, and the impact of violence on families and communities in a post-conflict society. Conor's journey involves confronting his inner demons and seeking redemption in a challenging environment. Teenage Kicks received positive reviews for its raw portrayal of adolescence and its nuanced examination of a complex social and political landscape. It features a largely young and relatively unknown cast, praised for their authentic performances. The title references the iconic song "Teenage Kicks" by the Undertones, a Derry-based punk band, reflecting the film's setting and its exploration of youth culture.