Common Sense Media Review
By Christie Cronan
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Docu about power of music has language, intense war footage.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 14+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Kiss the Future
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
KISS THE FUTURE is a documentary produced by Matt Damon and Ben Affleck that tells the story of cultural resistance during the siege of Sarajevo in the 1990s Bosnian War—the longest siege in modern European history. The film focuses on the city's peaceful act of defiance, using the power of music to transcend the horrors of war and create change. Connecting with one of the world's biggest bands helped the city's citizens raise awareness about the devastation of the conflict—ultimately leading to U2 upholding their promise to perform a postwar concert and sparking a collective healing moment in history.
Is It Any Good?
This moving, powerful war documentary is a 1990s European history lesson wrapped in a U2 biopic. Told in a provocative and compelling way, Kiss the Future reminds viewers that the saying "music can change the world" may be clichéd but is still true—and relevant. Depictions of a horrific, war-torn city are balanced with scenes of a vibrant underground movement of cultural defiance through music and art. In demonstrating its citizens' resilience and determination to live a normal life despite tragedy, Sarajevo becomes the main character in the story, connecting with U2 and ultimately shining a global light on the Bosnian conflict. Through interviews, storytelling, and U2 concert clips, director Nenad Cicin-Sain creates a dynamic narrative that inspires hope while also serving as a haunting reminder of how history tends to repeat itself.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the power of music in Kiss the Future. Is the movie successful in conveying the message of how music can change the world despite hardship, tragedy, and war?
Why was it important for the people of Sarajevo to live a "normal life" during the siege? How did culture, art, and music affect their resilience and resistance to the conflict?
What role did U2 have in Sarajevo's liberation? Why was the postwar concert a pivotal moment in Sarajevo's history?
Movie Details
- In theaters : February 23, 2024
- On DVD or streaming : May 7, 2024
- Cast : Bono , The Edge , Adam Clayton
- Director : Nenan Cicin-Sain
- Studio : Fifth Season
- Genre : Documentary
- Topics : Activism , History
- Character Strengths : Communication , Compassion , Courage , Perseverance
- Run time : 103 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- Award : Common Sense Selection
- Last updated : September 18, 2025
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