Judas Priest Documentary Co-Directed by Rage Against The Machine’s Tom Morello

A new documentary titled The Ballad of Judas Priest is currently in production, offering an in-depth look at the legendary heavy metal band’s over 50-year career. Co-directed by filmmaker Sam Dunn and marking the documentary debut of Tom Morello—guitarist of Rage Against the Machine and Audioslave—the film promises an intimate, uncensored exploration of Judas Priest’s journey from their 1969 formation through various cultural milestones.

The documentary aims to chronicle the band’s significant influence on the sound and image of heavy metal, as well as their efforts to make the genre more inclusive. It will delve into pivotal moments such as surviving controversies like the 1980s “subliminal messages” trial and frontman Rob Halford’s groundbreaking decision to come out as gay in the late 1990s.

In a statement, the band expressed their enthusiasm: “We have lived and breathed metal for over five decades, and finally in this documentary we are summoning our congregation to officially witness our lives uncensored, in a never-before-seen way. The … !”

While the release date has not yet been confirmed, anticipation is high among fans. The band remains active, with original members Rob Halford, Ian Hill, and Glenn Tipton still performing. They released their 19th album, Invincible Shield, in 2024 and are set to embark on a North American tour with Alice Cooper this autumn.

Tom Morello’s involvement in this project underscores his deep-rooted passion for heavy metal. Beyond his musical endeavors, Morello has been an advocate for the genre, serving on the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame nominating committee since 2014. He has championed the inclusion of hard rock and metal acts, notably advocating for Iron Maiden’s induction, which he considers “the most egregious oversight” in the Hall’s history.

Morello’s foray into documentary filmmaking with The Ballad of Judas Priest reflects his commitment to celebrating and preserving the legacy of heavy metal’s pioneers. His collaboration with Sam Dunn, known for his expertise in music documentaries, promises a compelling and comprehensive portrayal of Judas Priest’s enduring impact on the music world.