Metallica released the first trailer for their upcoming documentary “Metallica Saved My Life” on Tuesday, April 8. Directed by long-time collaborator and Grammy-winner Jonas Åkerlund, the documentary will be shown in select cities during the band’s M72 world tour.
In a statement, Metallica said, “Not quite finished yet, we want YOU to be among the first to see our latest film project by award-winning director Jonas Åkerlund, all about the lifeblood of this band: the fans. This documentary explores our world through the lives of fans who have supported each other through highs, lows, trials, and triumphs for over four decades.”
The one-minute preview features drummer Lars Ulrich stating, “Metallica is a state of mind,” over a mournful piano as band members and fans express what Metallica means to them. “Unapologetically real, and vulnerable,” says one fan, while another describes it as “hope, freedom, escape.”
A montage follows, showing long-time fans discussing how the band gave them an identity, with descriptions like “dork… loner… a weirdo.” One Black fan recalls being questioned for listening to “white people music.”
James Hetfield, the band’s singer and guitarist, comments on the diversity of stories in the film, which Åkerlund directed. “Whatever you want to put on that… religion, cult, family, whatever label. I don’t care. It’s a gathering of like-minded people that are there to celebrate life.”
The band further noted, “As a few of you may know, we’ve been working behind the scenes the last couple of years on a new film that will be released later this year starring you guys! ‘Metallica Saved My Life’ explores our world through the lives of fans who have supported each other through highs, lows, trials and triumphs for over four decades. And yeah, we’re in it a little bit too.” The documentary, featuring all four band members and actor Jason Momoa, is expected to be released later this year.
Details about the North American screenings, which will run from April through June, can be found online. These screenings will be phone-free and limited to two tickets per person.
Metallica will resume the M72 tour on April 19 at the JMA Wireless Dome in Syracuse, New York. Additionally, the band has announced a collaboration with the American Red Cross for blood drives during their 2025 U.S. dates. Donors of all blood types are encouraged to make an appointment. Donors must be at least 17 years old in most states (or 16 with parental consent where allowed) and weigh at least 110 pounds to be eligible.
