Common Sense Media Review
By Jennifer Green , based on child development research. How do we rate?
BTS concert documentary shows hard work; mild language.
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BTS: Permission to Dance on Stage – LA
Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 1 parent review
What's the Story?
BTS: PERMISSION TO DANCE ON STAGE – LA captures four live performances by the hugely popular South Korean boy band in Los Angeles in late November and early December 2021. This was just after some pandemic restrictions had lifted, and concert-goers filling the SoFi Stadium can be seen wearing masks. The concert features many of the band's biggest hits and also offers backstage footage between sets.
Is It Any Good?
This concert film seamlessly splices together four different live performances and displays BTS' precision choreography. These talented performers don't miss a beat, though one member bemoans a missed side step during a break in BTS: Permission to Dance on Stage – LA. They admit how tired they are starting about halfway through the concert -- but they don't show it. Concerts have become as much about the theatrics as what's happening on stage, and here there are backup dancers, musicians, confetti, and a giant video screen, not to mention several wardrobe changes.
But the film's focus stays on the band, and they deserve it. Even if you're not a particular fan of their music, you have to appreciate the effort they put in. They're mostly not comfortable speaking in English, so their personal comments are a little thin -- until the end, when several give their farewells in Korean. Still, this film isn't intended as a get-to-know-the-band vehicle. Even during the breaks, they're largely silent or just exchanging small talk. But given that it stars one of the world's most successful musical groups, it's sure to find its audience.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the work that goes into choreographing a concert like BTS: Permission to Dance On Stage – LA. What do you think the biggest challenges are?
How did BTS come together as a band? Where can you go for more information?
How do the members RM, Jin, SUGA, j-hope, Jimin, V, and Jung Kook interact with each other on stage?
Which of their songs speak(s) to you the most, and why?
Movie Details
- On DVD or streaming: September 8, 2022
- Cast: BTS
- Directors: Jun-Soo Park , Sam Wrench
- Studio: Disney+
- Genre: Documentary
- Topics: Arts and Dance , Music and Sing-Along
- Run time: 130 minutes
- MPAA rating: NR
- Last updated: June 30, 2023
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