METALLICA: THROUGH THE NEVER Review

Posted by Wade Mendham (@Waderman)

This part story/mostly concert film is a pretty good representation of what the band Metallica is now, though not necessary what it once was. Directed by Nimród Antal who brought us Predators, Metallica: Through the Never gives us a musical experience that tries to be more then just a standard concert film. Nothing in the vain of the classic music films like Scorsese's The Last Waltz or Shine a Light, it's an ethereal story of a young 'edgy' roadie (Dane DeHaan) sent to get some gear for the band which interrupts songs from the show. It's a good idea to break up the show but I don't think the story really justifies its place.

Sitting in a crowded, rowdy audience in an IMAX cinema, with its justifiably loud sound system, gave a rare cinema going experience. Whether it gave the crowd what they wanted is another thing; it should have started (and ended) on a stronger note instead of the comical parody and some existential metaphors.

On a personal note, Metallica taught me not only how to play guitar but how to appreciate the extremities of music. I can't say the same about this film though. The audience at the concert in the film wasn't nearly as escapist as I would have hoped either (not to say that is a criticism of the director of course). It is probably the best representation of the current Metallica fan base. Wives of old fans who would have never listened to Metallica, teenagers checking out what Dad was on about and older fans that probably never really got past listening to the classics.

I think Metallica's place in music is just as important as the Rolling Stones or The Band and with such an important position in music, the band deserves a film from the likes of a director like Scorsese. Nimród's direction is pretty good and could stand on its own but I feel like it doesn't give Metallica fans what they need or want. As a pure concert film, I did enjoy it. Metallica fans should still see this on the biggest screen possible, and as loud as their ears will allow without bringing on premature deafness. If you're not a fan, this probably won't convert you unless you already have metal leanings.

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