Kundun
The destiny of a people lies in the heart of a boy.
1997 • 134 min • Drama · History
Synopsis
From childhood to adulthood, Tibet's fourteenth Dalai Lama deals with Chinese oppression and other problems.
Our family guide
Best from age 13- 68 Audience · 513 · 100%
This historical drama chronicles the life of the 14th Dalai Lama from his discovery as a child through his eventual exile. It depicts the peaceful traditions of Tibetan Buddhism alongside the harrowing events of the Chinese invasion and subsequent occupation of Tibet.
- Violence & peril
- 3/10
- Language
- 1/10
- Drinking, drugs & smoking
- 0/10
- Romance & sensuality
- 0/10
- Scary moments
- 4/10
Heads up
- Historical depiction of invasion and occupation
- Scenes of cultural destruction and displacement
What it models well
- Peace and non-violence
- Spiritual leadership
- Resilience in adversity
- Cultural preservation
Talk about it after
- What it means to be a spiritual leader at a young age
- The importance of peaceful resistance
- Understanding different cultures and beliefs
- The impact of political conflict on people
Written by the Movie Knight editorial team for Kundun. Our own words, our own scoring — always double-check against your family's standards.
Where to watch
Rent
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Top billed cast
Director: Martin Scorsese • Crew: Melissa Mathison
- T
Tenzin Thuthob Tsarong
Dalai Lama (Adult)
- T
Tencho Gyalpo
Mother
- T
Tsewang Migyur Khangsar
Father
- G
Gyurme Tethong
Dalai Lama (Age 12)
Robert Lin
Chairman Mao
- T
Tulku Jamyang Kunga Tenzin
Dalai Lama (Age 5)
- T
Tenzin Yeshi Paichang
Dalai Lama (Aged 2)
- T
Tenzin Topjar
Lobsang (5-10)
- T
Tenzin Lodoe
Takster
- G
Geshi Yeshi Gyatso
Lama of Sera
Trailers & clips
Kundun Theatrical Trailer
Reviewer notes
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