3 Movies Every Metallica Fan Should See

What makes a great metal band? Well, vocals that growl and rattle bones, guitars that overpower the elements and songs that shake the soul. That seems like a good start. And by that criteria, Metallica just might be the best—and certainly the most well-known—metal band ever.

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And with news of the band’s newest movie, which is centered around its latest release, 72 Seasons, we thought we would revisit the history of the iconic band here via three films. Perfect for the fall—also known as the cozy season.

[RELATED: The Sentimental Meaning Behind Metallica’s “72 Seasons”]

1. Metallica: Through the Never (2013)

With a title hearkening back to the group’s 1991 song of the same name, this 2013 concert film is also a thriller movie. Two for one! With show footage from concerts in 2012 in Vancouver, B.C. and Edmonton, the movie follows the band’s roadie (played by actor Dane DeHaan) and his ups and downs as he follows the band. Inspired by Pink Floyd’s The Wall, this movie has little dialogue and lots of power. Check out the trailer below.

2. Metallica: Some Kind of Monster (2004)

This 2004 documentary centers on Metallica, chronicling the group from 2001 to 2003. Viewers will see the band members at odds with one another at this particularly tumultuous juncture in its history. It was shot around the time the band was working on its 2003 LP, St. Anger, and also around the time lead singer James Hetfield was dealing with rehab for alcohol abuse. The movie also shows the band switching between bass players, from Jason Newsted to Robert Trujillo. Check out the trailer for the doc below.

3. A Year and a Half in the Life of Metallica (1992)

This two-part documentary, which was released in 1992, follows the band making its self-titled album, which is also known as The Black Album. Directed by Adam Dubin, this offering shows the band early in its heyday, some three decades ago.The trailer follows while the entire work is on YouTube.

Get ready for an unforgettable night of metal greatness. Purchase your Metallica tour 2023 tickets now!

Photo: Francine Orr / Los Angeles Times via Getty Images