Common Sense Media Review
By Diondra K. Brown , based on child development research. How do we rate?
Beyoncé's silver tour hits the silver screen; some swearing.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 11+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Renaissance: A Film by Beyoncé
Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 5 parent reviews
What's the Story?
RENAISSANCE: A FILM BY BEYONCÉ follows Beyoncé's path to bringing her dazzling tour, four years in the making, to fans around the world. Renaissance, Queen Bey's seventh studio album, was inspired by stories of the past, present, and future. The songs' moving, catchy lyrics pay homage to her ancestors and also celebrate the beauty of life. Her vision as the Mother of the House of Renaissance comes to life on stage in spectacular, silver splendor as Beyoncé belts out pop songs. Footage from the concert is mixed with backstage scenes of Beyoncé spending time with her family members (including her husband and her children, with 11-year-old daughter Blue Ivy joining her for a portion of the concert) and building relationships with her performers and crew. She's also joined on stage by legendary musical guests and explains the inspiration for the album in a touching way. The endurance needed to plan and perform the show is evident, and the visuals on stage -- including animation, lighting, and pyrotechnics -- are spellbinding and help tell the show's story in a memorable way.
Is It Any Good?
This is a stunning peek inside Beyoncé's mind and her journey to creating a musical masterpiece. Renaissance: A Film by Beyoncé gives viewers an all-access pass to Act I of the star's reported three-act career finale. The film was created by Parkwood Entertainment, Beyoncé's own company. She served as the film's writer, director (along with James B. Merryman and Mark Ritchie), and producer -- which comes across in the intentionality and care that are used to tell a story in each scene of the film. At one point, the icon remarks, "I have nothing to prove to anyone at this point" -- but she does indeed prove why she's incomparable. Ultimately, she comes across as a hardworking performer, a loving mother, and an innovative thinker.
Renaissance is a new beginning and a rebirth, and it's also a place where everyone belongs and all are welcome. Beyoncé shares her vulnerabilities as a Black woman and her appreciation for her life struggles and experiences. She also pays homage to those who paved the way and served as her inspiration. From her Uncle Johnny and her mother, Tina Knowles, to Kevin JZ Prodigy and Diana Ross, Beyoncé gives credit to those who've touched her life and inspired her passion and creativity. She shares emotional moments on and off the stage, including clips of home videos that may prompt viewers to laugh and cry along with her. Beyoncé seems to truly appreciate all those who choose to take this musical journey of healing and love with her. Even for those who attended the concert live, this inside view of its creation is likely to offer new appreciation for its achievements, both musically and visually. And fans will likely want to get up and groove along with the album's chart-topping hits, which have intentionally inclusive lyrics. It's a must-see for anyone who considers themselves a member of the Beehive -- and there's a special musical treat during the end credits.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how, in Renaissance: A Film by Beyoncé, Beyoncé demonstrates perseverance and determination. What do you think was the hardest part of creating her show?
Why was it important to Beyoncé to celebrate Black American culture and queer culture in Renaissance? Why are diverse representations important in the media?
What have you learned about the importance of empowerment and self-expression?
Movie Details
- In theaters: December 1, 2023
- Cast: Beyoncé
- Directors: James B. Merryman , Mark Ritchie
- Inclusion Information: Female actors, Black actors, Multiracial actors
- Studio: AMC Theatres
- Genre: Documentary
- Topics: Music and Sing-Along
- Character Strengths: Communication , Perseverance
- Run time: 169 minutes
- MPAA rating: NR
- Award: Common Sense Selection
- Last updated: December 7, 2023
Inclusion information powered by
Did we miss something on diversity?
Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by suggesting a diversity update.
Suggest an Update
What to Watch Next
Common Sense Media's unbiased ratings are created by expert reviewers and aren't influenced by the product's creators or by any of our funders, affiliates, or partners.
See how we rate