Kundun
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68% Critic Match

Kundun

The destiny of a people lies in the heart of a boy.

6.8 / 10 1997 2h 14mPG-13 English
DramaHistory

Storyline

The Tibetans refer to the Dalai Lama as 'Kundun', which means 'The Presence'. He was forced to escape from his native home, Tibet, when communist China invaded and enforced an oppressive regime upon the peaceful nation. The Dalai Lama escaped to India in 1959 and has been living in exile in Dharamsala ever since.

Cast & Crew

Tenzin Thuthob Tsarong

Tenzin Thuthob Tsarong

Dalai Lama (Adult)

Lead
Tencho Gyalpo

Tencho Gyalpo

Mother

Tsewang Migyur Khangsar

Tsewang Migyur Khangsar

Father

Gyurme Tethong

Gyurme Tethong

Dalai Lama (Age 12)

Robert Lin

Robert Lin

Chairman Mao

Tulku Jamyang Kunga Tenzin

Tulku Jamyang Kunga Tenzin

Dalai Lama (Age 5)

Tenzin Yeshi Paichang

Tenzin Yeshi Paichang

Dalai Lama (Aged 2)

TT

Tenzin Topjar

Lobsang (5-10)

What People Are Saying

4.0
A staggering achievement of craft and ambition. Martin Scorsese's vision lands with breathtaking precision.
Manohla Dargis, The New York Times
3.0
Every frame feels alive. Kundun is the rare release that takes its audience seriously.
Anthony Lane, The New Yorker