A new feature-length documentary, 'Iron Maiden: Burning Ambition' is unequivocal essential viewing for the global legion of Iron Maiden faithful.
It is the ultimate story of how the Beast got its horns.
The documentary covers a large swarth of well-trod Iron Maiden lore, from their scrappy East End beginnings and fronting the new wave of British heavy metal (NWOBHM) to eventually ruling as one of the biggest bands in the world.
However, it's abundantly clear from the outset that this film is not about the band. At its core, it's a heartfelt love letter dedicated to the fans.
Bookended by a quote from frontman Bruce Dickinson, 'Burning Ambition' asserts that Iron Maiden fans are not only part of a global family, but the sole reason for the band's longevity and continued success.
As such, although the film features plenty of audio commentary from various band members, including Dickinson and bassist/ band leader Steve Harris, they never once face the camera.
Instead, screen time is heavily devoted to interviews with everyday fans who form a broad cross-section of society.
People from all over the world and all walks of life who find common ground as members of the Maiden Family, each with their own story of how Iron Maiden's music has impacted them.
Among the notable talking heads are actor Javier Bardem, Rage Against The Machine guitarist Tom Morello, Metallica drummer Lars Ulrich, Chuck D of Public Enemy, and owner of Metal Blade Records Brian Slagel.
The other star of the show, of course, is the immortal Eddie, easily the most recognisable band mascot in rock music.
As well as exploring his original design and purpose, Eddie appears in several impressive CGI sequences that accompany the storytelling and give the film that signature Iron Maiden aesthetic.
The audience is also treated to a visual delight of documented and previously unseen footage of Iron Maiden's rise to prominence, including recordings and photographs from the band's personal collections.
'Burning Ambition' aptly invokes the standard tropes for any rockumentary, keenly tracking Iron Maiden's trajectory over the past 50 years through all their trials and triumphs.
However, in condensing the band's extensive career into just under two hours, there are some gaps in the storytelling, such as original vocalist Phil Di'Anno's death in 2024.
Ultimately, 'Burning Ambition' leaves the viewer – be they avid Iron Maiden fan or otherwise – with an overwhelming sense of positivity and fulfilment.
For the casual observer, it's a serviceable rockumentary that does justice to an undisputed icon of heavy metal. For the Maiden faithful, it's validation for their years of loyalty.
If you don't get to see Iron Maiden on their Run For Your Lives 50th anniversary Australian tour in November, you cannot miss this film. Up the Irons!
Tickets to the movie are on sale.
'Iron Maiden: Burning Ambition' releases in cinemas nationally from 7 May.
