Co-directed by filmmaker Sam Dunn and Tom Morello, guitarist of Rage Against the Machine and Audioslave, this documentary marks Morello’s debut in the realm of filmmaking. The film aims to delve into the band’s over five-decade-long career, exploring their musical evolution, cultural impact, and the challenges they’ve faced along the way. From their early days to surviving controversies like the 1980s “subliminal messages” trial and frontman Rob Halford’s groundbreaking decision to come out as gay in the late 1990s, the documentary will offer a comprehensive view of their journey.
The documentary is expected to cover key moments in the band’s history, including the release of iconic albums such as British Steel (1980), Screaming for Vengeance (1982), and Painkiller (1990), which redefined the heavy metal genre. It will also highlight their influence on the visual identity of metal, notably through their signature leather-and-studs aesthetic. Additionally, the film will explore the band’s resilience in the face of challenges and their efforts to make the genre more inclusive.
While the release date has not been officially confirmed, anticipation is high among fans. The band remains active, with original members Rob Halford, Ian Hill, and Glenn Tipton still performing. They released their 19th album, Invincible Shield, in 2024 and are set to embark on a North American tour with Alice Cooper this autumn.
For fans eager to delve deeper into the band’s history, the documentary Judas Priest: Breaking the Band is available on Apple TV+. Released in 2022, this 44-minute film offers insights into the band’s rise to fame and their impact on the heavy metal genre.
As Netflix continues to expand its portfolio of music documentaries, The Ballad of Judas Priest is poised to be a standout production, offering a fresh perspective on the band’s legacy and their enduring influence on the world of heavy metal.
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