Some Kind of Monster
September 10th 2008 03:30
Some Kind of Monster is a documentary that follows the trials and tribulations faced by metal moguls Metallica as they record their eagerly anticipated 8th studio album, St. Anger.
Essentially this is a film about superstar egos, and is packed with conflict and real-life melodrama (particularly between front-man James and drummer Lars) on a level almost akin to that of reality shows like Big Brother. Whilst many may find their constant arguing and bickering irritating, these quarrels do at times make for entertaining viewing, and will have viewers wondering just how this band has managed to stick together for more than twenty years.
The film not only gives an insight into the personal and creative process involved with making the album, but also reveals for the first time a glimpse at the business side of this iconic band. It examines the aftermath of the band's decision to spearhead their famous lawsuit against Napster, and it follows their process of finding a new bassist.
Some Kind of Monster also briefly looks at the history of Metallica, covering the untimely death of former bassist Cliff Burton, and holding interviews with ex-band member Jason Newsted and previous Metallica guitarist Dave Mustaine.
Fraught with rehab, regret, band therapists and continual squabbling, Some Kind of Monster is an entertaining film for both Metallica fans and regular viewers alike.
Essentially this is a film about superstar egos, and is packed with conflict and real-life melodrama (particularly between front-man James and drummer Lars) on a level almost akin to that of reality shows like Big Brother. Whilst many may find their constant arguing and bickering irritating, these quarrels do at times make for entertaining viewing, and will have viewers wondering just how this band has managed to stick together for more than twenty years.
The film not only gives an insight into the personal and creative process involved with making the album, but also reveals for the first time a glimpse at the business side of this iconic band. It examines the aftermath of the band's decision to spearhead their famous lawsuit against Napster, and it follows their process of finding a new bassist.
Some Kind of Monster also briefly looks at the history of Metallica, covering the untimely death of former bassist Cliff Burton, and holding interviews with ex-band member Jason Newsted and previous Metallica guitarist Dave Mustaine.
Fraught with rehab, regret, band therapists and continual squabbling, Some Kind of Monster is an entertaining film for both Metallica fans and regular viewers alike.
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Comment by David O'Connell
Screen Fanatic
Comment by Cibbuano
Hunt Famous
Orble Post of the Day
Fat Cult
Techbreak
Chris, have you seen the documentary "Metal: A headbanger's journey"?
Comment by JohnDoe
Film & TV on DVD
I'm another who is not a fan of metallica the band, but found Some Kind of Monster immensely watchable. Informing on the BTS life and creation of epic rock.
Comment by Chris Creegan
Filmreviewer.net Forums
Creegan's Footie
Reading all these comments and seeing just how popular Some Kind of Monster was with non-Metallica fans is a statement to just how much of a ‘business’ this band has become.
Whether or not this has affected their artistic integrity is a debating point constantly argued amongst fans, but one factor is certain- Metallica have expanded their reach into the mainstream with a level of success that no other band in the Metal genre has managed to achieve.
Comment by David O'Connell
Screen Fanatic
I still can't stand their music however.................. (;