New York, NY – June 6, 2025
In a heartfelt tribute to His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama’s 90th birthday, the Tribeca Festival honored a special 35mm screening of Kundun, the critically acclaimed 1997 biographical film directed by Martin Scorsese, on Friday, June 6 at 2:00 PM at the SVA Theatre in Manhattan.
(Photo courtesy Tribeca Film Festival )
The screening began with a special introduction by Martin Scorsese himself, who offered personal reflections on the film’s creation, its historical context, and the spiritual depth that continues to resonate nearly three decades after its original release.
Kundun depicted the extraordinary life of Tenzin Gyatso, the 14th Dalai Lama, tracing his journey from his early recognition as the reincarnation of the 13th Dalai Lama to his leadership during the Chinese invasion of Tibet and eventual exile to India in 1959. The screenplay, written by Melissa Mathison, was based on her conversations with the Dalai Lama and reflected a deep commitment to the Tibetan cause.
Released in 1997, Kundun received four Academy Award nominations at the 70th Oscars in 1998:
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Best Cinematography – Roger Deakins
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Best Art Direction – Dante Ferretti and Francesca Lo Schiavo
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Best Costume Design – Dante Ferretti
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Best Original Score – Philip Glass
At the time of its release, the film drew diplomatic pressure from the Chinese government due to its portrayal of the Tibetan struggle. Despite political controversy, Kundun has endured as one of Scorsese’s most contemplative and visually striking works, offering a rare cinematic portrayal of Tibetan Buddhist philosophy, cultural identity, and nonviolent resistance.
