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Parents' Guide to

I Used to Be Famous

By Stefan Pape, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 14+

Sweet British drama has neurodiverse lead, strong language.

Movie NR 2022 104 minutes
I Used to Be Famous movie poster

A Lot or a Little?

What you will—and won't—find in this movie.

Community Reviews

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age 8+

Based on 3 parent reviews

Katarzyna
Katarzyna Adult
October 17, 2022
age 7+

An inspiring and motivating story encourages you and your children to follow their dreams no matter the obstacle.

This kind of movie does bring Good Change. An inspiring and motivating story encourages you and your children to follow their dreams no matter the obstacle. Amazing music, really good acting and indeed good shots, showing the real people, us. You could just feel that you are part of this community. A truthful story with educational, family, friendships and life values, teaches what is important and that sometimes there is a second chance to choose better and that it is worth saying no and taking the steering wheel into your own hands. The big fame needs to be turned away in a favour of the deeper but local fame. How many of us could do so? Knowing what really matters. Bravo for bringing up the aspect of hidden and visible disabilities. A unique and original movie, with a beautiful story of morals and friendship without borders. This movie is rare and we need more of that kind of movie. Tangible close human connections are worth everything. This movie is worth watching again and it will happen very soon! Thank you.

This title has:

Educational value
Great messages
Great role models
1 person found this helpful.
ricsevenz
ricsevenz Adult
September 21, 2022
age 8+
Lovely film, touching and heartwarming ❤️
1 person found this helpful.
See all 3 parent reviews

What's the Story?

I USED TO BE FAMOUS tells the story of ex-boyband member Vince (Ed Skrein), who is determined to make a musical comeback. Rejected by promoters and producers, he's downbeat, until he meets young drummer Stevie (Leo Long). Stevie, who is on autism spectrum, encourages Vince to believe in himself again, and the duo form a two-man band, "The Tin Men."

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say (3 ):
Kids say (1 ):

This charming comedy-drama could be accused of being a little overly sentimental at times. But there's no denying that I Used to Be Famous has a good heart. Skrein excels in the lead role. His character, Vince, has a real sincerity to him that enriches the performance. There's also an authenticity that derives from hiring a neurodiverse actor (Long) to play the character of Stevie -- who is on the autistic spectrum -- and something the film should be commended for.

The setting is vibrant too, and has a positive effect on the tonality of the film. London's Peckham comes to life on-screen and works as a great backdrop for the story to unfold. Regrettably though, the movie does suffer in one area: its music. Vince and Stevie are creating new songs for the former's comeback shows. But what is written isn't quite strong enough, which detracts from the story. That said, the film is understated, avoiding cinematic cliches often seen in other underdog stories. Instead it revels in more intimate, human triumphs, like friendship.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about the portrayal of Stevie in I Used to Be Famous. What can this film teach neurotypical viewers about neurodiversity? Why is it important to see diverse characters in movies and other media?

  • Both Vince and Stevie show perseverance, courage, and teamwork? Why are these such important character strengths? Can you think of a time when you've displayed these traits?

  • Stevie is pushed outside of his comfort zone. Have you ever done something that made you feel nervous? How did you feel after having done it?

  • Talk about the strong language in the movie. Did it seem necessary, or excessive? What did it contribute to the movie?

Movie Details

Did we miss something on diversity?

Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by suggesting a diversity update.

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