Metallica: Some Kind of Monster
Metallica: Some Kind of Monster

Movie spotlight

Metallica: Some Kind of Monster

2004
Movie
140 min
English

After bassist Jason Newsted quits the band in 2001, heavy metal superstars Metallica realize that they need an intervention. In this revealing documentary, filmmakers follow the three rock stars as they hire a group therapist and grapple with 20 years of repressed anger and aggression. Between searching for a replacement bass player, creating a new album and confronting their personal demons, the band learns to open up in ways they never thought possible.

Insights

IMDb7.7/10
Rotten Tomatoes88%
Metacritic79/100
Google Users88%
Director: Joe Berlinger, Bruce SinofskyGenres: Documentary, Music

Plot Summary

This documentary chronicles the tumultuous creation of Metallica's 2003 album, 'St. Anger,' capturing the band's internal struggles, the departure and controversial integration of new bassist Robert Trujillo, and the intense therapy sessions undertaken to overcome creative blocks and personal demons. It offers an unflinching look at the band's dynamics during one of their most challenging periods.

Critical Reception

Metallica: Some Kind of Monster was widely praised by critics for its raw honesty and intimate portrayal of the band's struggles. Reviewers lauded its willingness to delve into the complex interpersonal dynamics and the creative process, even when it was messy and uncomfortable. Audiences also appreciated the candid look behind the scenes of one of the world's biggest metal bands.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its unprecedented access and unflinching honesty.

  • Seen as a fascinating, if at times uncomfortable, look at the creative process and band dynamics.

  • Lauded for its candid depiction of therapy and personal growth within a high-pressure environment.

Google audience: Google users largely appreciated the film's raw and intimate portrayal of Metallica's struggles and creative process, highlighting its honesty and the insight it provided into the band's dynamics during a difficult period. Many found it compelling to witness the band members working through their issues.

Awards & Accolades

Nominated for the Grammy Award for Best Music Film.

Fun Fact

The film famously captured the tension between James Hetfield and Lars Ulrich, including an argument where Hetfield compares Ulrich's drumming to 'a girl with a pair of sticks'.

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