Watch Some Kind of Monster

Some Kind of Monster is a documentary film that follows the journey of Metallica, one of the most influential heavy metal bands of all time, during the recording process of their eighth studio album entitled St. Anger. It features the band's lead vocalist and guitarist James Hetfield, lead guitarist Kirk Hammett, and drummer Lars Ulrich as they navigate through a tumultuous period in their band's history.

The film starts with the departure of the band's bassist and founding member Jason Newsted, who left the band due to creative differences and disagreements with the other members. This event marked the beginning of a difficult time in Metallica’s career, as the band struggled to find a new bassist while also dealing with internal conflicts and personal issues.

The documentary captures the band's raw emotions and vulnerability during this period, as they allowed the filmmakers unprecedented access to their personal lives and the creative process. It showcases the intense dynamics between the band members, their management team, and their therapist, as they attempt to resolve their interpersonal conflicts and stay true to their artistic vision.

One of the most striking elements of the film is the portrayal of the band's emotional fragility and the toll that their rockstar lifestyle had on their personal lives. The film highlights how the band's success brought them fame, fortune, and a legion of fans, but also created a sense of isolation and emptiness within them. This theme is most apparent in Hetfield's struggles with alcoholism, which forced him to leave the band and enter rehab during the recording process.

The film also provides a detailed exploration of the band's creative process and the challenges they faced while recording St. Anger. It showcases the band's dedication to their craft and willingness to experiment with new sounds and styles, despite the criticism and backlash they received from fans and critics.

Some Kind of Monster is an intimate and powerful portrayal of one of the most iconic rock bands of all time. The film offers a rare glimpse into the lives of the band members, and the intense pressure and scrutiny they faced throughout their career. It also showcases the unique bond between the band members, which was essential to their success and longevity.

Overall, Some Kind of Monster is a must-watch for Metallica fans and anyone interested in the creative process of a legendary band. It offers a compelling narrative that is both emotional and insightful, and provides a fresh perspective on the making of one of the band's most iconic albums.