58 Essential Metal and Punk Films
58 titles
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MetalheadMovie · 2013 · 97m · Drama, MusicIn 1990s Iceland, a young woman struggles with the lingering pain of her brother's death and her own feeling of being trapped. She finds comfort in playing metal music and aspires to create her own sound.IMDb 7.0TMDB 7.3 - 2
Tenacious D in The Pick of DestinyMovie · 2006 · 93m · Comedy, Music, FantasyIn Venice Beach, a naive Midwesterner named JB befriends local slacker KG, and together they form the rock band Tenacious D. Their ambition to become the world's greatest band leads them on a quest to acquire a legendary magical guitar pick. This pick is rumored to be housed in a rock-and-roll museum, located 300 miles away.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.8 - 3
Wesley Willis: The Daddy of Rock 'n' RollMovie · 2003 · 59mThis documentary follows the life of Wesley Willis, a Chicago artist and musician who passed away at the age of 40. Filmmaker Daniel Bitton chronicles Willis's daily life as he navigates the city, from bus rides and interactions with people to selling his CDs in record stores. Known for his size – 6'6" and over 300 pounds – and his struggles with schizophrenia, Willis was cherished by fans and friends for his unique music, artistic talent, and gentle nature. A survivor of poverty, mental illness, abuse, racism, and obesity, he embodied the power of resilience and creativity. His ability to build a music career and live a full life was remarkable.IMDb 7.1TMDB 7.2 - 4
Glory DazeMovie · 1995 · 100m · ComedyThis comedy-drama follows a group of college friends as they face the uncertainties of graduating and entering the real world. Jack struggles with the transition from student life. His roommates – all grappling with their own anxieties – begin a journey of self-discovery. Rob questions settling into everyday life. Mickey, a shy artist, tries to overcome his social awkwardness to find love. Slosh, focused on academics, wonders if knowledge alone is enough. Dennis, comfortable with school, starts to question his future. Together, they learn about embracing change and finding happiness in this look at life after college.IMDb 5.6TMDB 5.1 - 5
Once Upon a Time in NorwayMovie · 2007 · 60mThis film features interviews with key figures from the pioneering Norwegian black metal bands, exploring the origins of the genre, the notorious Mayhem collective, and the criminal acts associated with the early black metal scene.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.8 - 6
Lords of ChaosMovie · 2018 · 118m · Drama, Music, ThrillerIn 1990s Oslo, a teenager's ambition to establish the Norwegian Black Metal scene takes a shockingly violent turn.IMDb 6.6TMDB 6.8 - 7
Slave to the GrindMovie · 2018 · 100mGrindcore is the fastest and most intensely aggressive music genre. It combines the anti-establishment and left-wing viewpoints of British punk with the speed and violent energy of American death metal, consistently challenging and shocking those who listen.IMDb 7.3TMDB 7.4 - 8
Such Hawks Such HoundsMovie · 2008 · 84m*Such Hawks Such Hounds* examines the music and artists of the American hard rock underground from 1970 to 2007. It highlights the psychedelic and early heavy metal-influenced styles that have recently developed into a diverse collection of music that defies easy categorization.IMDb 7.8TMDB 7.7 - 9
True Norwegian Black MetalMovie · 2007 · 32mThis five-part documentary from VBS/Vice Magazine explores various facets of the life of Gaahl, the vocalist renowned for his work with the black metal band Gorgoroth.TMDB 6.0 - 10
This Is GWARMovie · 2021 · 110mThis documentary chronicles the story of the legendary heavy metal band, as seen through the eyes of those who have dedicated over three decades to keeping them going. Featuring interviews with current and former band members, alongside artists like Weird Al Yankovic, Thomas Lennon, Alex Winter, Bam Margera, and Ethan Embry, the film also includes previously unseen footage of GWAR's iconic frontman, Dave Brockie.IMDb 7.7TMDB 6.9 - 11
Heavy TripMovie · 2018 · 92m · Comedy, MusicTuro lives a quiet life in a small village, finding joy as the lead singer of his amateur metal band, Impaled Rektum. The band has spent twelve years rehearsing but has never performed live. A visit from a promoter for a major heavy metal festival in Norway gives them a chance to finally make their dreams a reality. Desperate, they resort to stealing a van, a corpse, and a new drummer.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.9 - 12
The Decline of Western CivilizationMovie · 1981 · 100m · Documentary, MusicThis period drama explores the vibrant Los Angeles punk music scene of 1980. The film captures the raw energy and rebellious spirit of the time with a soundtrack featuring bands like Alice Bag Band, Black Flag, and X. Set against a backdrop of social change in the city, the movie shows a time when music offered both escape and a voice for protest. Through its detailed portrayal of the punk scene, the film provides an immersive look at the unbridled creativity of that era.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.1 - 13
Uncle PeckerheadMovie · 2020 · 97m · Horror, Comedy, MusicA punk band gets their first tour, but their journey takes a dark turn when they take on a roadie with a hunger for something more than just backstage passes.IMDb 5.9TMDB 6.0 - 14
Repo! The Genetic OperaMovie · 2008 · 98m · Horror, Science Fiction, MusicIn 2056, a global epidemic of organ failure has ravaged the world. The powerful corporation GeneCo offers transplants on a payment plan, reclaiming organs from those who default. A teenage boy, battling a debilitating illness, uncovers a startling truth about his own identity, his father, and their ties to GeneCo.IMDb 6.4TMDB 6.2 - 15
Dogs in SpaceMovie · 1986 · 103mMelbourne, Australia, 1978. The punk scene is exploding, and Dogs In Space are right in the middle of it. A group of misfits and rebels live together in a rundown suburb, finding solace in old sci-fi movies, drugs, and loud music. Their precarious existence feels like it could be shattered at any moment.IMDb 6.4TMDB 5.7 - 16
Sound of MetalMovie · 2020 · 121m · Drama, MusicDrummer Ruben starts losing his hearing. A doctor warns him it will get worse, making him feel like his career and life are over. His girlfriend Lou sends him to a rehab facility for the deaf, hoping it will prevent a relapse and help him adjust. There, accepted for who he is, Ruben must decide whether to embrace this new reality or return to his old one.IMDb 7.7TMDB 7.7 - 17
This Is EnglandMovie · 2007 · 101m · Drama, CrimeSet in England during 1983, the film follows a troubled young boy. After a school fight, he encounters a group of skinheads who quickly become his closest friends, evolving into something akin to family. The story is drawn from the director's own experiences.IMDb 7.7TMDB 7.5 - 18
American HardcoreMovie · 2006 · 100m · Documentary, MusicDrawing from Steven Blush's "American Hardcore: A Tribal History," Paul Rachman's first feature documentary explores the underground hardcore punk scene between 1979 and 1986. The film features interviews and previously unseen live performances from prominent artists including Black Flag, Bad Brains, Minor Threat, SS Decontrol, and the Dead Kennedys.IMDb 7.3TMDB 6.8 - 19
Global MetalMovie · 2008 · 93m · Documentary, MusicGLOBAL METAL, directed by Scot McFadyen and Sam Dunn, explores how heavy metal, often misunderstood in the West, has resonated globally. The film follows metal fan and anthropologist Sam Dunn as he travels through Asia, South America, and the Middle East to investigate the world's developing extreme metal scenes – from Indonesia to China to Iran. GLOBAL METAL shows a worldwide community of metal fans who are not just embracing metal from the West, but reshaping it into a unique form of cultural expression within societies grappling with conflict, corruption, and consumerism.IMDb 7.9TMDB 7.3 - 20
Metal LordsMovie · 2022 · 97m · Comedy, Drama, MusicFor awkward teenagers Hunter and Kevin, success is simple: dedicate themselves to heavy metal, win the Battle of the Bands, and achieve legendary status.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.9 - 21
Black Metal SatanicaMovie · 2008 · 80mBLACK METAL SATANICA is a documentary exploring the history of the Black Metal music genre, focusing on its dark and mystical aspects. Rooted in Scandinavian Viking traditions, Black Metal draws upon ancient Viking melodies, lyrics, and mythology from the 11th century.IMDb 6.1TMDB 5.5 - 22
AirheadsMovie · 1994 · 92m · Comedy, Crime, MusicIn a world where dreams depend on a single recording, two dedicated musicians face a career crisis when their demo is ignored by the music industry. Determined to be heard, they hatch a daring plan: to break into and seize control of a popular FM rock radio station. The pair orchestrates a series of clever heists and tense negotiations, ultimately taking the station's popular DJs hostage.
Using the airwaves to broadcast their music, the band’s passionate sound resonates throughout the city. Their quiet fight for recognition escalates into a dramatic confrontation between the artists and a powerful industry resistant to their style. This compelling story examines the lengths people will go to achieve fame, the cost of staying true to one's art, and the impact of genuine talent on an audience.IMDb 6.2TMDB 6.2 - 23
Repo ManMovie · 1984 · 92m · Comedy, Science FictionA young man's life changes when he takes a job as a repossession agent with a seasoned veteran. Their assignments are anything but typical, involving alien encounters, shadowy government operations, and a quest for a rare 1964 Chevy with hidden secrets. As they navigate a world of conspiracy, danger, and humor, the unlikely pair develops a strong friendship. This blend of science fiction, action, and comedy offers a fresh and exciting take on growing up.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.7 - 24
Until the Light Takes UsMovie · 2008 · 93m · Documentary, MusicThis film explores the history, beliefs, and artistic style of Norwegian black metal, a musical subculture known for both its distinctive sound and a series of infamous crimes, including murders and church arsons. It's the first film to offer an in-depth look at this movement, moving beyond rumors and misleading portrayals. Featuring exclusive interviews with the musicians involved, *Until the Light Takes Us* examines every facet of this controversial phenomenon that has captivated global attention.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.7 - 25
This Is Spinal TapMovie · 1984 · 82m · Comedy, Music"This Is Spinal Tap" humorously and realistically follows a metal band as they try to recapture their past fame. The film explores the band's history, full of successes and failures, name changes, and disappointing crowds. Viewers meet a variety of people – groupies, promoters, and others – who influence the band as they work on new recordings, promote their music, and deal with the realities of life on tour. Combining comedy and genuine insight, "This Is Spinal Tap" offers a candid look at a musical group striving for a comeback, capturing themes of ambition, perseverance, and the music business.IMDb 7.9TMDB 7.4 - 26
Louder Than Hell: Wacken The MovieMovie · 2014 · 96mWacken Open Air is the world's largest three-day rock and metal festival. The film captures three days of intense energy, continuous heavy metal music at full volume, and 80,000 fans in a celebratory frenzy. A true institution, held annually since 1990 in the quiet German town of Wacken, it draws fans globally. It was released on DVD, Blu-ray, and 3D Blu-ray on December 24, 2014.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.4 - 27
HesherMovie · 2010 · 106m · DramaGrief-stricken after his mother's death, a young boy struggles to connect with his father and the world. His already unstable life takes a turn for the worse when he encounters Hesher, a person who brings even more disruption into his world.IMDb 6.9TMDB 6.8 - 28
MeadowlandMovie · 2015 · 105m · DramaFollowing a devastating loss, Sarah and Phil struggle to cope, acting impulsively and disregarding the consequences. As Sarah becomes increasingly reckless, Phil begins to compromise his principles, and she descends further into a distorted reality.IMDb 5.8TMDB 5.8 - 29
The Devil and Daniel JohnstonMovie · 2006 · 110m · Documentary, MusicThis 2005 documentary follows the life of Daniel Johnston, a singer, songwriter, and artist who lived with manic depression. It explores his life from childhood to the present, focusing on how his mental illness shaped his work, often expressing itself through intense self-absorption.IMDb 7.9TMDB 7.7 - 30
DeathgasmMovie · 2015 · 86m · Horror, ComedySeeking an escape from their ordinary lives, two teenage boys experiment with black magic and inadvertently awaken a powerful, ancient evil known as The Blind One.IMDb 6.3TMDB 6.3 - 31
Anvil! The Story of AnvilMovie · 2008 · 81m · Documentary, MusicRobb Reiner and Lips, best friends since they were 14, made a promise to play music together for life. Their band, Anvil, known as the "demi-gods of Canadian metal," inspired bands like Metallica, Slayer, and Anthrax. After a disastrous European tour, Robb and Lips, now in their fifties, embark on recording their 13th album – a final effort to realize the dreams they shared as young men.IMDb 7.9TMDB 7.6 - 32
The Decline of Western Civilization Part IIIMovie · 1998 · 86m · Documentary, MusicPenelope Spheeris continues her exploration of counterculture with the third film in "The Decline of Western Civilization" series, focusing on 'gutter punks' – homeless teenagers living on the streets of Los Angeles. The documentary offers a direct look at their daily lives and emotions as they try to escape societal expectations. It examines survival, self-expression, and strength, revealing a community often ignored. Using personal interviews and raw footage, Spheeris presents an honest portrayal of this group, showing their resourcefulness and the difficult realities of life in a city known for its image. "The Decline of Western Civilization III" is a moving film that questions our ideas about young people, homelessness, and living outside mainstream society.IMDb 7.2TMDB 6.8 - 33
Heavy MetalMovie · 1981 · 90m · Animation, Science Fiction, AdventureA young girl's life is disrupted by a strange, glowing sphere that presents her with disturbing stories filled with dark fantasies and nightmares. The sphere, a source of pure evil, uses these narratives to frighten her, exploring themes of fear, desire, and the worst of human nature. As the stories become increasingly real, the girl struggles to distinguish between what's happening in the stories and what's actually happening to her, and fights to escape the sphere's terrifying influence.IMDb 6.6TMDB 6.5 - 34
SLC PunkMovie · 1998 · 97m · Comedy, Drama, Crime"Kassandra" is a captivating Venezuelan telenovela from the early 1990s about Kassandra, a gypsy girl who marries into a wealthy family. She doesn't know she is the granddaughter of the family's head. On her wedding night, tragedy occurs when her husband is murdered, and Kassandra is wrongly blamed. This gripping drama examines family secrets, love, betrayal, and injustice, creating a complex story that captivated viewers worldwide. "Kassandra" was a major international hit, especially popular in Italy, Russia, Eastern Europe, former Yugoslavian countries, and parts of South, East Asia, and the Middle East. The telenovela's popularity spread further when Televisa remade it as "Peregrina" in 2005-2006, the first Hispanic telenovela dubbed into Cebuano and Hiligaynon for the Philippines.IMDb 7.3TMDB 7.1 - 35
Detroit Rock CityMovie · 1999 · 95m · Comedy, Music, AdventureIt's 1978 in Detroit, and three high school friends set out on a memorable adventure to get tickets to see Kiss in concert. This comedy-drama follows their coming-of-age story as they desperately try to secure seats at the sold-out show. Their quest involves funny challenges: competing in an amateur night at a strip club, dealing with religious protesters, and even stealing to get the money. Through these experiences, the boys discover the value of loyalty and friendship while learning important lessons about life.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.7 - 36
Death by MetalMovie · 2016 · 107mDEATH BY METAL is a rock documentary that explores the beginnings of the band DEATH in Altamonte Springs, Florida, focusing on the determined Chuck Schuldiner over fifteen years. The film follows the band's growth from small steps to major achievements, highlighting the talent and unique contributions of its evolving lineup.IMDb 7.4TMDB 7.1 - 37
24 Hour Party PeopleMovie · 2002 · 117m · Comedy, Drama, MusicManchester, 1976. Tony Wilson, an ambitious TV news reporter, wants to break into the industry. Inspired by a Sex Pistols concert, he convinces his station to broadcast a performance. Suddenly, punk bands in Manchester want him to manage them. Capitalizing on this musical explosion, Wilson and his friends found Factory Records and The Hacienda club, launching a legendary era.IMDb 7.3TMDB 6.9 - 38
We Are the Best!Movie · 2013 · 102m · Drama, MusicIn 1980s Stockholm, three young women defy expectations by forming a punk band. Undeterred by a prevailing belief that the punk movement has faded, they embark on their musical journey with no instruments.IMDb 7.1TMDB 7.0 - 39
Green RoomMovie · 2016 · 95m · Horror, Crime, ThrillerA punk rock band's lives change forever when they witness a violent incident at a skinhead bar, forcing them to fight for their own survival.IMDb 6.9TMDB 6.7 - 40
The RunawaysMovie · 2010 · 107m · Music, Drama, HistoryIn 1970s Southern California, Joan Jett and Cherie Currie, two fiercely independent teenagers, form the band The Runaways. With the guidance of manager Kim Fowley, the all-female group quickly achieves widespread fame, becoming pioneers for women in rock music.IMDb 6.5TMDB 6.5 - 41
Get ThrashedMovie · 2006 · 100mGet Thrashed chronicles the history of thrash metal, from its beginnings to its lasting influence on genres like grunge and nu metal, and its continued presence in modern heavy metal. The film explores the development of the heaviest, most intense music of the 1980s and early 1990s, featuring perspectives from the bands who created it, the fans who embraced it, and the artists who continue to champion thrash metal today.IMDb 7.7TMDB 7.0 - 42
The RockerMovie · 2008 · 102m · Comedy, MusicDuring the 1980s, a drummer is left behind when his band achieves rock fame. Two decades later, he gets a new opportunity when he's invited to play with his teenage nephew's high school rock band.IMDb 6.2TMDB 6.0 - 43
Sid and NancyMovie · 1986 · 114m · Drama, RomanceIn January 1978, the Sex Pistols, after successful shows in England, tour the southern United States. As tensions rise within the band, Sid Vicious’ unpredictable behavior becomes a problem for his bandmates. They urge him to tour without his girlfriend, Nancy Spungen, who will meet him later in New York City.
As the band falls apart and Sid pursues a solo career in a hostile New York, Sid and Nancy become deeply involved in drug addiction. The film examines this difficult period of their lives, revealing their destructive relationship and the excesses that defined the band and the era.
The story is presented with the raw energy of punk rock, capturing its cultural impact and the despair and hope it represented. It’s a powerful look at two young people lost in fame and addiction, and the consequences of living outside mainstream society.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.7 - 44
SuckMovie · 2009 · 91m · Comedy, Horror, Music"The Winners," a struggling rock band with vocalist Joey Winner, bassist Jennifer, guitarist Tyler, drummer Sam, and French-Canadian roadie Hugo, embark on a tour of Canada and the USA with their unscrupulous manager, Jeff. Their journey takes a dark turn when Jennifer is transformed into a vampire by Queeny. As they flee, a vampire hunter named Eddie Van Helsing, who fears the dark, relentlessly pursues them.IMDb 6.0TMDB 6.2 - 45
ControlMovie · 2007 · 121m · DramaThis is the story of Ian Curtis, the singer for Joy Division, following him from his teenage years in 1973 to his death in 1980, the day before the band was scheduled to embark on their first tour of the United States.IMDb 7.6TMDB 7.5 - 46
One Man MetalMovie · 2012 · 47mOne Man Metal explores the lives and perspectives of the musicians behind the one-man bands Xasthur, Leviathan, and Striborg.TMDB 8.0 - 47
Heaven Knows WhatMovie · 2015 · 97m · Drama, CrimeIn New York City, a young woman battling heroin addiction navigates the streets, seeking money for her next high. Her volatile boyfriend appears and disappears unpredictably throughout her life.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.5 - 48
Heavy Metal 2000Movie · 2000 · 88m · Action, Adventure, AnimationWhen miner Tyler finds a fragment of the Loc-Nar, he becomes consumed by a desire for power and eternal life. Heading to a planet rumored to grant youth, he destroys a space colony and abducts a woman. His failure to kill her sister, Julie, sets her on a path of rescue and revenge.IMDb 5.4TMDB 6.0 - 49
Metalocalypse: Army of the DoomstarMovie · 2023 · 83m · Animation, Comedy, MusicFollowing the rescue of Toki Wartooth, Nathan Explosion, the lead singer of DETHKLOK, is deeply shaken by a difficult professional and romantic experience. He is then burdened with a prophecy: he must write the Song of Salvation to save the world. Can Nathan Explosion overcome his emotional wounds to save his band, halt the impending doom, and confront the ultimate evil, Salacia?IMDb 6.4TMDB 6.6 - 50
Bomb CityMovie · 2017 · 98m · Drama, CrimeA long-standing rivalry between the town's punk rock scene and a wealthier group escalates, culminating in an act of hate.IMDb 6.8TMDB 7.1 - 51
Pop RedemptionMovie · 2013 · 94m · ComedyThis film follows a black metal band on the verge of disbanding. On their way to a final performance at the Hellfest festival, a tragic accident sets off a chain of unforeseen events for the four members.IMDb 6.0TMDB 5.8 - 52
The Punk SingerMovie · 2013 · 80m · Documentary, MusicThis film explores the life of Kathleen Hanna, a musician, activist, and influential figure in popular culture. She was the driving force behind the punk band Bikini Kill and a key figure in the 1990s "riot grrrl" movement.IMDb 7.4TMDB 7.2 - 53
The Decline of Western Civilization Part II: The Metal YearsMovie · 1988 · 93m · Documentary, MusicThis documentary explores the vibrant heavy metal scene in Los Angeles, highlighting glam metal – known for its flamboyant style, spectacular shows, and powerful guitar work. Through concert footage and interviews with key bands and artists, the film offers an immersive look at this era. Featuring Aerosmith, Alice Cooper, Kiss, Megadeth, Motörhead, Ozzy Osbourne, and W.A.S.P., it examines the genre's history and influence on popular culture. The documentary reveals the lives and viewpoints of these influential musicians, providing insight into the creative force behind this distinctive art form.IMDb 7.2TMDB 6.8 - 54
Heavy Metal Parking LotMovie · 1986 · 17m · Documentary, Music"Heavy Metal Parking Lot" captures a fascinating glimpse into heavy metal culture in 1986, just before a concert at Landover's Capital Centre. The film follows fans gathering outside the venue days before Judas Priest and Dokken perform. Through direct conversations with the excited audience, we see their love of music, their style, and the strong sense of community within this subculture. The documentary's unedited look offers a rare view into the core of heavy metal fandom during a time when the genre was still largely unknown. As the fans get ready for a big night, their lively energy and dedication show the lasting power of this unique musical movement.IMDb 7.3TMDB 6.8 - 55
Last Days HereMovie · 2011 · 91mThis documentary chronicles Bobby Liebling, the iconic vocalist for the influential hard rock band Pentagram, as he confronts a lifetime of severe drug addiction and inner turmoil in his struggle to reclaim his life.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.3 - 56
BlackheartsMovie · 2016 · 87mBlackhearts offers a new perspective on the infamous Norwegian black metal scene. The film journeys to South America, Europe, and the Middle East to document three devoted fans of the music, each with deeply held religious and political beliefs.IMDb 6.3TMDB 5.3 - 57
Rez MetalMovie · 2021 · 76mREZ METAL chronicles the inspiring story of I Don't Konform, a Navajo heavy metal band's ascent from playing on impoverished reservations to recording their first album with a Grammy-winning producer who worked with Metallica. The film also explores the vibrant and growing heavy metal community on the Navajo Nation.IMDb 7.9TMDB 8.0 - 58
Metal: A Headbanger's JourneyMovie · 2005 · 91m · Documentary, MusicThis film explores the origins and defining characteristics of several prominent metal subgenres, including New Wave of British Heavy Metal, power metal, Nu metal, glam metal, thrash metal, black metal, and death metal. Using a visual family tree, the documentary charts the development of these popular styles. It also examines various facets of heavy metal culture.IMDb 8.0TMDB 7.6
