A Night with Metallica: “Metallica Saved My Life” Movie Review

A Night with Metallica: “Metallica Saved My Life” Movie Review
By Jon Verno, Metal Mayhem ROC - Rochester, NY

As I made the drive from Rochester to Syracuse on the night before Metallica’s highly anticipated concert at the JMA Wireless Dome, I decided to check out the premiere of Metallica Saved My Life at Destiny USA. The timing felt perfect for a test run to explore the new parking procedures at the Dome, and what a bonus it turned out to be catching this new documentary!

Let me tell you, I am so glad I did. WOW doesn't even begin to cover it. The premiere was packed with Metallica fans, buzzing with excitement, some of whom were even featured in the film itself. The energy in that room was contagious.

Directed by the legendary Jonas Åkerlund, a Grammy-winning director behind Metallica's iconic music videos like "Whiskey in the Jar" and "Turn the Page," the documentary takes a fresh perspective on the band's impact. While James Hetfield, Lars Ulrich, Robert Trujillo, and Kirk Hammett all share new interviews, the focus is primarily on the fans – those who have made Metallica an integral part of their lives.

The movie dives deep into how Metallica’s music has been a lifeline for so many, offering a sense of community and survival. It’s not just about how much fans love the band, but also about how the band loves its fans back. It’s heartwarming and emotional to see the stories unfold. From a soldier in Iraq who credits a Metallica cassette with saving his life to a grieving mother and father finding solace at a Metallica concert after losing their young daughter, these stories are a testament to the healing power of music.

One of the most profound moments for me was meeting a couple who were also featured in the film. The man had been in a life-threatening motorcycle accident, where he was bedridden and in a coma. He described how a potential Metallica concert, the thought of seeing them live, became his reason to fight for survival. That’s the power of music – it gives people a reason to live, to hope, and to heal.

It was an emotional ride for everyone in the theater. In a way, we were all in this together, sharing in the connection that only Metallica fans truly understand. Even the band’s own stories of personal struggle, especially Hetfield’s candidness about his demons, reminded us that Metallica’s journey is one of resilience, survival, and unwavering brotherhood.

The night was made even more special by the fact that I got to take a peek at the exclusive Metallica merch pop-up store , where fans could grab some rare, limited-edition items before the big show. It was the perfect prelude to the sold-out concert the next day at the JMA Dome.

By the way, for anyone wondering, the new parking system at the JMA Dome was an interesting experience. I’m sure it’s going to cause a bit of confusion for the crowd during future events, but it seems like they’re working through the kinks. Regardless, the excitement around Metallica’s performance, with special guests Pantera and Suicidal Tendencies opening, made the parking woes all but disappear from everyone’s mind.

Metallica Saved My Life is a documentary that truly captures the essence of Metallica fandom. It’s a celebration of the band’s music, but more importantly, it’s a celebration of the bond the band shares with its fans. It’s a love letter to the community that has made Metallica not just a band, but a lifeline for many.

I highly recommend checking it out when it hits Regal Cinemas and during the band’s M72 tour stops. It’s an experience that will remind you why Metallica isn’t just a band – they’re a family.

Check out some of our other Metallica Saved my Life Content and our Kirk Hammett Interview :