13 Must-Watch Movies For Metalheads!

Metal is more than just music—it’s a lifestyle, a community, and for many of us, a way of life. The aggressive energy, dark themes, and rebellious spirit of metal resonate deeply with us fans. These elements don’t just exist in music; they bleed into other forms of art, especially movies.

Whether it’s a documentary that delves into the history and culture of metal or a fictional narrative that embodies its ethos, there’s a lots of movies out there that speak directly to metalheads.

In this article, we’ll explore 13 must-watch movies that every metal fan should experience. From iconic documentaries to gritty fictional tales, these films capture the essence of metal culture.

So, grab your popcorn, turn up the volume, and let’s dive into the world of metal on the big screen.

Classic Metalhead Movies

This Is Spinal Tap (1984)

If there’s one movie that every metalhead should watch, it’s This Is Spinal Tap. This iconic mockumentary follows the fictional British heavy metal band Spinal Tap as they embark on a disastrous American tour.

The film satirizes the wild antics of rock bands and is filled with quotable lines, hilarious moments, and a deep understanding of the rock and metal scene. It’s a perfect blend of comedy and metal culture, making it a must-watch for any fan of the genre.

The Decline of Western Civilization Part II: The Metal Years (1988)

This documentary offers a raw and unfiltered look at the glam metal scene of the 1980s. Directed by Penelope Spheeris, the film features interviews with some of the biggest names in the genre, including Ozzy Osbourne, Alice Cooper, and members of bands like Poison and Megadeth.

The documentary doesn’t shy away from showing the darker side of fame, with candid discussions about addiction, excess, and the pressures of the music industry. It’s a fascinating glimpse into a pivotal moment in metal history.

Heavy Metal (1981)

Heavy Metal is an animated anthology film that combines sci-fi, fantasy, and rock music to create a visual and auditory experience that’s pure metal. The movie features a series of stories connected by a mysterious glowing orb known as the Loc-Nar, with each segment exploring themes of power, corruption, and destruction.

The soundtrack is packed with heavy hitters like Black Sabbath, Blue Öyster Cult, and Cheap Trick, making it a must-see for any metal fan.

Documentaries About Metal

Metal: A Headbanger’s Journey (2005)

Sam Dunn, a lifelong metalhead and anthropologist, takes viewers on a journey through the history and culture of metal in Metal: A Headbanger’s Journey. The documentary explores the origins of the genre, its various subgenres, and the impact it has had on fans around the world.

Interviews with metal legends like Tony Iommi, Bruce Dickinson, and Ronnie James Dio provide insight into the music and its enduring appeal. It’s an essential watch for anyone looking to understand the roots of metal.

Anvil! The Story of Anvil (2008)

Anvil! The Story of Anvil is a heartwarming and heartbreaking documentary that follows the Canadian heavy metal band Anvil. Despite being pioneers of the genre, Anvil never achieved the same level of success as their peers.

The documentary chronicles the band’s struggles to keep their dream alive, even as they face financial difficulties, aging, and the harsh realities of the music industry. It’s a testament to the perseverance and passion that drives metal musicians.

Until the Light Takes Us (2008)

For those interested in the darker side of metal, Until the Light Takes Us is a must-watch. This documentary delves into the Norwegian black metal scene, exploring its origins, controversies, and the infamous church burnings and murders that shocked the world.

The film features interviews with key figures in the scene, including Varg Vikernes and Fenriz, and provides a chilling look at a subculture that pushed the boundaries of music and morality.

Movies Featuring Metal Music and Culture

Lords of Chaos (2018)

Based on the book of the same name, Lords of Chaos, tells the story of the early Norwegian black metal scene, focusing on the band Mayhem and its members. The film captures the chaos, violence, and tragedy that defined the scene, including the murder of Mayhem’s guitarist Euronymous by bandmate Varg Vikernes. It’s a brutal and unflinching portrayal of a dark chapter in metal history, making it a gripping watch for any metalhead.

Deathgasm (2015)

Deathgasm is a horror-comedy that combines the gore of horror movies with the rebellious spirit of metal. The film follows a group of teenage metalheads who accidentally summon a demon through their music. As chaos ensues, the group must use their knowledge of metal to save their town from demonic destruction.

With its over-the-top gore, humor, and a killer soundtrack, Deathgasm is a love letter to metal fans and horror fans alike.

Wr reviewed the heavy Metal horror comedy movies featuring Foo Fighters, Studio 666 here.

Rock Star (2001)

Inspired by the true story of Tim “Ripper” Owens, who went from being a Judas Priest tribute band singer to fronting the real band, Rock Star is a tale of dreams coming true—only to find that reality isn’t what it’s cracked up to be.

The movie follows Chris Cole, played by Mark Wahlberg, as he navigates the highs and lows of sudden fame. With a soundtrack featuring songs from the likes of Steel Dragon (a fictional band created for the movie), it’s a must-watch for anyone who’s ever dreamed of being a rock star.

Movies That Embody the Spirit of Metal

Mad Max: Fury Road (2015)

Mad Max: Fury Road may not be a movie about metal, but it embodies the spirit of the genre in every frame. The film’s dystopian wasteland, intense action sequences, and larger-than-life characters all have a distinctly metal vibe.

The film’s War Boys, with their obsession with chrome and death, could easily be characters from a metal album cover. The movie’s relentless pace and visual style make it a thrilling experience for any metal fan.

The Crow (1994)

With its dark, brooding atmosphere and themes of vengeance and redemption, The Crow is a film that resonates deeply with metal culture. The movie follows Eric Draven, a musician who is resurrected to avenge his and his fiancée’s murders.

The film’s gothic aesthetic and haunting soundtrack, featuring bands like The Cure and Nine Inch Nails, make it a favorite among metalheads. It’s a story of love, loss, and retribution that captures the darker side of the human experience.

Mandy (2018)

Mandy is a psychedelic horror film that feels like it was pulled straight from a metalhead’s fever dream. The movie follows Red Miller, played by Nicolas Cage, as he embarks on a bloody quest for revenge after his girlfriend is murdered by a cult.

The film’s surreal visuals, heavy metal soundtrack, and intense performances make it a unique and unforgettable experience. It’s a movie that doesn’t just play with metal themes—it embodies them in every way.

Tenacious D in The Pick of Destiny (2006)

Tenacious D in The Pick of Destiny is a comedic ode to the power of rock and metal. The movie follows the fictionalized adventures of Tenacious D, played by Jack Black and Kyle Gass, as they search for a magical guitar pick that will make them the greatest band in the world.

The film is filled with references to rock and metal culture, and its over-the-top humor and catchy songs make it a must-watch for fans of the genre.

Conclusion

These 13 movies capture the essence of what it means to be a metalhead. Whether they’re exploring the history and culture of the genre, telling fictional tales that resonate with metal themes, or simply embodying the spirit of metal through their style and tone, these films are essential viewing for any fan of heavy music. They remind us that metal is more than just a genre—it’s a way of life that permeates everything from music to movies and beyond.

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