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 his journey from his upbringing in 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 interweaves Kelly’s music with reflections on his passionate advocacy for social justice and cultural prideIn the context of national identity,

Luke serves as more than a biographical documentary. It underscores the enduring 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 a shared national mythology, connecting generations through its emotional resonance and defiance against cultural erasure. By celebrating Kelly’s life and art, the documentary reinforces how figures like him shape the narrative of a nation’s cultural identity. See links below.