'The Ballad of Judas Priest' Review: A Delightful Rock Doc

Variety

by Guy Lodge

February 20, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

'The Ballad of Judas Priest' is a heartfelt documentary that celebrates the legendary British heavy metal band, offering an intimate look at their five-decade journey. Directed by Tom Morello and Sam Dunn, both longtime fans of the band, the film combines new interviews, rare archive footage, and concert highlights to paint a vivid portrait of Judas Priest's enduring legacy. The documentary shines a light on the band's pioneering role in shaping heavy metal, from their early days in the late 1960s to their current status as iconic figures in the genre. Judas Priest's story is one of resilience and reinvention, with the band navigating lineup changes, legal battles, and personal struggles over the years. A particularly gripping segment revisits the infamous "subliminal messages" court case from the 1980s, where the band had to defend themselves against absurd claims that their music caused teen suicides. The film also delves into the band's broader cultural impact, showcasing their crossover success and memorable performances, including their appearance at the *American Idol* finale in 2011. One of the most poignant aspects of the documentary is its

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Originally published on Variety on 2/20/2026