METALLICA: SOME KIND OF MONSTER
Directed & Produced by: Joe Berlinger & Bruce Sinofsky.
Director of Photography: Bob Richman.
Supervising Editor: David Zieff.
Edited by: Doug Abel & M. Watanabe Milmore.
Music by: Metallica.
Released by: IFC.
Country of Origin: USA. 139 min. Rated: R.
With: Metallica: James Hetfield, Lars Ulrich, Kirk Hammett & Robert Trujillo.

This intimate look at one of the most successful rock bands of all time begins soon after longtime bassist Jason Newsted quits the band and the relationships within Metallica are rocky at best. Although the film follows the recording and creation of their latest album, it is by no means a plug for St. Anger. In the tradition of cinéma vérité, cameras capture the life within the bubble of a rock star, from balancing family life to the meticulous and sometimes frustrating creation of the music. Even their group therapy sessions are filmed. The members do not fail to recognize they are being filmed; when singer James Hetfield returns from rehab, the band actually discusses the validity of the documentary, questioning whether it might be counter-productive. Interestingly, this lengthy look shatters hard-rock stereotypes by its down-to-earth and unguarded depictions. Although it’s hard to reconcile Hetfield’s famed partying lifestyle with his attending his daughter’s ballet lessons, the contrast is absolutely intriguing. While idiosyncrasies are revealed and Metallica music fuels the film with pulsing bass lines and wild guitar riffs, Metallica will appeal both to its fans and non-fans alike. Lisette Johnson
June 7, 2004