Judas Priest is an iconic heavy metal band that has been rocking the world for more than five decades and inspiring generations of musicians. If you’re looking to get a deep dive into their illustrious career, you can do so by watching one of these fantastic documentaries about Judas Priest. From interviews with the band members to behind-the-scenes looks into their live performances, these documentaries provide an insider’s look at the band and their immense influence on the world of heavy metal music. From deep dives into their history to interviews with some of their most devoted fans, here are five must-see documentaries about Judas Priest that you can’t miss!
1. Judas Priest – Music in Review Music Documentary
Judas Priest are renowned as one of the greatest heavy metal bands in history, having sold over 50 million albums and inspired generations of musicians. Emerging from Birmingham in 1969, Judas Priest revolutionized the metal scene with their innovative sound. Between 1980 and 2003 they cemented their place as one of the genre’s leading acts, releasing a string of classic albums including British Steel, Screaming for Vengeance and Painkiller. Throughout the band’s rollercoaster career, their line-up has seen many changes – from revolving drummers in the 70s to Rob Halford departing the band in 1992 and rejoining in 2003. The latest Judas Priest roster features lifelong members Ian Hill (bass) and Glenn Tipton (guitar), as well current members Richie Faulkner (guitar), Scott Travis (drums) and the legendary Rob Halford (vocals).
2. Judas Priest The Making Of British Steel. British Steel 30th Anniversary
30 years ago, Judas Priest released one of the most iconic heavy metal albums to date: British Steel. To commemorate this monumental achievement, a documentary was produced that offers an intimate look into how the album was created. This film features never-before-seen footage and interviews with original band members exploring their experiences in depth. The documentary also delves into the songwriting process behind some of the album’s biggest hits, such as “Living After Midnight” and “Breaking the Law.” Whether you are a fan of Judas Priest or just looking to learn more about one of metal music’s most influential albums, this documentary is sure to provide an engaging look at British Steel from start to finish.
3. Metal Mythos – JUDAS PRIEST
The British heavy metal band Judas Priest has been an integral part of the metal scene since its formation in 1969. The band has endured through decades of lineup changes, legal battles, and a seemingly endless stream of tribute bands. Yet despite all this, Judas Priest remains one of metal’s most recognizable names. This documentary explores the history and impact of the band, as seen through interviews with original and current members. It delves into the darker side of metal music that Judas Priest has explored throughout its career, such as Satanism and occult themes. There are also archival footage and photos from their early days in Birmingham, England.
4. The Lawsuit Over Better By You, Better Than Me That Shook The Metal World
No one expected music history to be made in the courtrooms. But that’s exactly what happened with Judas Priest and their iconic hit, “Better By You, Better Than Me”. The story of this legal battle is an unforgettable reminder of how powerful a heavy metal anthem can be. On July 7, 1990, two Nevada teenagers named James Vance and Ray Belknap were tragically killed in a suicide pact. Following the incident, Vance’s mother sued Judas Priest for producing music that “encouraged” her son and his friend to take their own lives. The lawsuit caused an uproar in the metal music community, with many people questioning whether lyrics could be held responsible for a person’s actions.
5. Judas Priest – Victim of Changes (Epitaph)
Released in 1976, Judas Priest’s Victim of Changes was an instant classic and is now considered to be one of the greatest heavy metal albums of all time. The album’s title track is particularly noteworthy for its powerful lyrics that explore themes of change, growth, and transformation. It remains a fan favorite today and has been covered by numerous bands since its release. The classic Judas Priest lineup of vocalist Rob Halford, guitarists KK Downing and Glenn Tipton, bassist Ian Hill, and drummer John Hinch produced a hard-driving sound that was unique to the era. The album also showcased the band’s signature twin lead guitar style which has since been adopted by many other heavy metal acts.
