Killing Bono (2011)

The darkly comic true story of two Dublin brothers who chased rock glory while their schoolmates in U2 conquered the world.

Killing Bono - Movie Information

  • Original Title: Killing Bono
  • Release Year: 2011
  • Directed by: Nick Hamm
  • Type: Movie
  • Genres: Comedy, Drama
  • Age Rating (US): R
  • Runtime: 1h 55m
  • Original Language: English
  • Spoken Languages: English
  • Release Date (Theatrical): April 1, 2011 (United Kingdom - 15), November 4, 2011 (United States - R), September 12, 2013 (Germany - 12), August 3, 2011 (France)
  • Production Companies: Greenroom Entertainment, Cinema Three, Generator Entertainment
  • Production Countries: Ireland, United Kingdom

Killing Bono - Plot

The true story of Neil and Ivan McCormick, two Irish brothers who attempt to become rock stars but can only look on as their high school friends U2 become the biggest band in the world.

Killing Bono - Trailer

Watch the official trailer and see the rivalry unfold:

Sex, drugs & rock 'n roll rivalry

Where to Watch Killing Bono

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Killing Bono - Cast & Crew

Director(s)

  • Nick Hamm

Main Cast

  • Ben Barnes
  • Robert Sheehan
  • Pete Postlethwaite
  • Krysten Ritter
  • Ralph Brown
  • Justine Waddell
  • Luke Treadaway
  • Martin McCann
  • Peter Serafinowicz
  • Hugh O'Conor

Writers

  • Dick Clement
  • Ian La Frenais
  • Simon Maxwell

Producers

  • Ian Flooks
  • Mark Huffam
  • Piers Tempest

Killing Bono - FAQs

Is Killing Bono based on a true story?

Yes, Killing Bono is based on a true story. It is adapted from Neil McCormick's memoir 'I Was Bono's Doppelganger,' in which he recounts how he and his brother Ivan pursued rock stardom in Dublin while their schoolmates Bono and The Edge went on to form U2 and achieve global fame.

Where can you watch Killing Bono?

Killing Bono is available to rent or buy on Google Play Movies and YouTube. Streaming availability may vary by region, so checking JustWatch is the best way to find current viewing options in your area.

Who are the main actors in Killing Bono?

The film stars Ben Barnes as Neil McCormick and Robert Sheehan as his brother Ivan. The supporting cast includes Pete Postlethwaite, Krysten Ritter, Ralph Brown, Justine Waddell, Luke Treadaway, Martin McCann, Peter Serafinowicz, and Hugh O'Conor.

Did Neil McCormick actually know Bono in real life?

Yes. Neil McCormick attended Mount Temple Comprehensive School in Dublin alongside Paul Hewson, who would become Bono. McCormick went on to become a music journalist and critic, notably for The Daily Telegraph, and has maintained a long, complicated friendship with Bono throughout his career.

What is Killing Bono about?

Killing Bono follows Neil and Ivan McCormick, two Irish brothers who dedicate themselves to becoming rock stars in Dublin. As their dreams stall amid bad luck and misadventure, they watch helplessly as their former schoolmates in U2 rise to become the biggest band on the planet.

What is the age rating for Killing Bono?

Killing Bono is rated R in the United States. In the United Kingdom it carries a 15 certificate, and in Germany it is rated 12. The R rating reflects mature content including language, drug use, and adult themes throughout the film.

Who directed Killing Bono?

Killing Bono was directed by Nick Hamm, a Northern Irish filmmaker known for his work across film and theatre. The screenplay was written by Dick Clement and Ian La Frenais, the acclaimed British writing duo behind Porridge and The Commitments, alongside Simon Maxwell.

How long is Killing Bono?

Killing Bono has a runtime of 1 hour and 55 minutes (115 minutes). The film was released in the United Kingdom on April 1, 2011, and received its United States release on November 4, 2011.

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