10) Metallica: Through The Never
…and I’ve lost you already. It’s a shame that the best concert film I’ve ever seen was probably missed by most viewers who aren’t a fan of the aging metal Gods, but catching the midnight release of Metallica: Through The Never might have been the most fun I had at the movies this year. Sure, that’s probably because the random guy sitting all by himself three rows ahead of me was rocking every Lars drum solo and headbanging like he was front row at the actual show – but that’s the atmosphere such an amazing musical film delivers.
From the very first riff that starts blaring out of the speakers until the final instrumental diddy that plays out the credits, Metallica absolutely rocks as hard as any fan could dream. Cranking out classic after classic, we’re treated to a show full of lavish set productions and high-octane adrenaline that promotes the audience morphing into a real concert crowd. This isn’t just due to Metallica’s unmatched stage presence, but also director Nimród Antal’s steady direction that makes the larger than life icons seem too large for even the IMAX 3D screen. The concert film is an experience, and we’re given unprecedented views of a Metallica live show that we’d never get from sitting in the nosebleeds. The camera soars over the massive set, capturing Metallica surrounded by screaming fans, while also being permitted to walk the stage while Robert Trujillo does his patented “creep.”
Oh yeah, then there’s Dane DeHaan and the ongoing side-story of one warrior roadie tasked with saving the day. Turns out he gets stuck in some crazy apocalyptic scenario, and instead of watching his favorite band shred what have become bonafide rock scriptures, DeHaan fights to stay alive. These cutaways work as music videos for certain songs, and embrace the idea of flashy visuals and elaborate pieces to give audiences a break from the foursome. It’s not like we need one, but the mystical quest adds a layer of entertainment that still lets us experience the concert atmosphere simultaneously.
Coming from a Metallica fan, Antal’s film sets the bar for rock concert films just a little bit higher than it already was, paying tribute to a band that rewards audiences with a downright jaw-dropping, fist-pumping, heart-pounding experience.
Metallica: Through The Never will be available on DVD and Blu-Ray January 28th, 2014. Read my full review of the film here.