The RTÉ documentary Luke, directed by Sinead O'Brien and first broadcast in 1999, explores the life and legacy of Luke Kelly, one of Ireland's most iconic folk singers and a founding member of The Dubliners.

The film chronicles Kelly's journey from inner-city Dublin to his untimely death at 44, highlighting his profound influence on Irish music and culture. Featuring archival footage and interviews with figures such as Bono, Christy Moore, and Shane MacGowan, it weaves Kelly's music with reflections on his passionate advocacy for social justice and cultural pride.

In the context of national identity, Luke serves as more than a biographical documentary. It demonstrates the power of folk music as a vessel for storytelling and cultural continuity, with Kelly's renditions of classics like 'Raglan Road' and 'The Auld Triangle' embodying Ireland's struggles and aspirations. His voice became a symbol of shared national mythology, connecting generations through emotional resonance and resistance against cultural erasure.

By examining Kelly's life and art, the documentary illuminates how individual artists shape the narrative of national cultural identity, transforming personal expression into collective memory.