“Bono: Stories of Surrender” – a rock legend gets intimate (and actually kinda wins you over)

A rock music icon has teamed up with Apple Original Films to produce the compelling documentary “Bono: Songs of Surrender.” I’ll be honest: I’ve never officially registered as a member of the U2 fan club. In 2014, their album appeared on my phone without my consent, and Bono’s self-righteous attitude has made me cringe on multiple occasions.

So I approached “Bono: Stories of Surrender” while maintaining a skeptical side-eye due to expected rockstar ego antics. The documentary delivered an unexpectedly human and moving experience despite my lack of personal interest in Bono’s music. Director Andrew Dominik brings both warmth and theatrical flair to this film adaptation of Bono’s one-man stage show, which focuses more on soul-baring than stadium bombast. 

“Stories of Surrender” reveals Bono’s private world throughout his intimate Beacon Theatre performances as he navigates his childhood loss of his mother while exploring his roles as an activist and family man learning to support his loved ones. Bono combines speaking with singing and humor (not every joke hits) while sharing tales that resonate strangely even with those who’ve never faced 80,000 roaring fans wearing leather.

The film’s visual elements employ clever staging and archival footage to enrich the story without causing viewer distraction. The musical score earns its power and authority regardless of whether you consider yourself a follower of U2. The stripped-down renditions of “With or Without You,” “One,” and “Sunday Bloody Sunday” transform from arena anthems into emotional stops along Bono’s path. These tracks demonstrate the band’s songwriting strength by maintaining their emotional impact even after stripping away all pomp.

However, Bono can come across as too harsh at times. The movie sometimes enters a self-congratulatory “Here’s how I saved the world” zone while its underlying self-mythologizing remains noticeable despite the best editing efforts. He earns praise because he openly confronts contradictions, regrets and the complicated nature of his legacy.

While “Stories of Surrender” won’t turn everyone into U2 fans, it could inspire deeper appreciation for the individual who wears the shades. The film provides an honest and profound examination of dual identities as both a rockstar and a human being.

Final Grade: B-

“Bono: Stories of Surrender” is available to stream on Apple TV+ on May 30th.