Cannes, France
Cannes isn’t far from Eze Schulmer’s seaside villa, which Bono purchased back in 1993. He reflects on how the coastline has gifted him something akin to a “youthful delay.”
“You could say I was just napping on the beach nearby,” Bono chuckles, recalling those sunny days.
But, well, it’s not just about the picturesque spot. He’s in Cannes to unveil the documentary “Bono: Stories of Surrender” on Apple TV+. His daughter, actress Eve Hewson, had some wise words for him before the trip.
“She advised me: ‘Get over yourself and show up,'” Bono shared during an interview at a hotel along the Croisette. “What do I bring? Just myself and my gratitude for being a musician allowed to be at a festival celebrating other storytellers.”
Bono also mentioned that Cannes was established in World War II as an alternative to the Venice Film Festival, which was then under Mussolini’s control. He noted that the festival was meant to combat fascism.
He’s observed significant shifts in the geopolitical landscape. Bono has devoted much of his life to activism, particularly fighting for aid to Africa in the battle against HIV-AIDS. He pointed out that actions taken by former President Trump dismantled a lot of that progress.
“It’s irrational that we delight in the dysfunction of these charitable organizations,” Bono remarked.
The documentary, directed by Andrew Dominik and set to stream on May 30, adapts a stage show Bono created, drawing from his 2022 book, “Surrender: 40 Songs, One Story.”
In the film, he comes across as both introspective and candid, reflecting on the influence of his father while exploring U2’s rise to prominence and the interplay between ego and humanitarian work. Bono describes it as “the tall tale of a short rock star.” And, much like the sunny afternoons in Cannes, he brings a captivating vibe to the project.
The conversation turned to globalization, with some countries moving away from it. Bono acknowledged that globalization has lifted countless people out of extreme poverty, yet he also sees the toll it has taken on specific communities, particularly in Europe and the U.S. He understands this divergence but doesn’t think it’s the solution to our problems.
Bono expressed that nationalism isn’t what we need right now, recalling his upbringing in Ireland amid a tense atmosphere. He said it’s somewhat absurd to consider nationalism in the current landscape, yet he still thinks it’s vital to engage with ideas like surrender, non-violence, and peace.
He was asked about his feelings towards the Pope. “The new Pope seems like a good start,” he commented. Reflecting on how he’s shifted from a punk rock mentality to producing more subtle narratives, he noted, “It’s interesting to transition from noise to whispers in this film.”
A particularly poignant moment in the film comes when Bono talks about his late father, who passed away in 2001. Over the years, his thoughts and feelings about his dad have evolved.
“There’s a saying in music about how I’m a baritone, but I think he’s a tenor. I almost named the play that,” he explained. “He’s the reason I sing.”
His father’s influence lingers, especially during performances. “It’s a wound that never fully heals, and I feel a deep connection when I honor him on stage,” Bono reflected.
Looking at why he’s engaged in self-exploration through various mediums like a book, a stage show, and now a film, he described it as “mission creep.” Initially, it felt like he needed to convey a part of himself that wasn’t on display during U2 concerts. He emphasized the importance of vulnerability when sharing his story.
When asked if he gained a new perspective through this journey, Bono remarked that understanding one’s origins plays a significant role in personal growth. He referred to this introspective process as walking through a “Mirror Hall of Fame,” where all your past selves come into view, revealing truths about who you are.
He also touched on bigger topics, such as the escalating threat of conflict worldwide. Despite his commitment to peace, he maintains a sense of hope. “A pastor once told me that if you have the chance to desire change, it’s a moral duty,” he recalled.
Bono believes there’s a way out of difficult situations, even if it appears daunting. “It’s okay to acknowledge that everything could be lost, but that could lead to a change in direction,” he emphasized, expressing his faith in people.
He elaborated on the stark realities facing children and families in dire situations: “Here’s Europe, with America historically stepping in to help.” The irony isn’t lost on him when he considers the complex relationships among nations throughout history.
Bono emphasized the resilience of the Russian people, suggesting that they, too, need a shift in leadership, just as he believes Americans ultimately make informed choices when provided with the right information. He lamented the rollback in progress on major health interventions like those against HIV-AIDS, feeling it’s a setback for humanity.
