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Metallica: This Monster Lives
Metallica is the most successful hard-rock band of all time, having sold more than one hundred million albums worldwide. Receiving unique, unfettered access, acclaimed filmmakers Joe Berlinger and Bruce Sinofsky followed Metallica over two and a half years as they faced monumental personal and professional challenges that threatened to destroy the band just as they returned to the studio to record their first album in four years.
Berlinger's book about the experience reveals the stories behind the documentary Some Kind of Monster, capturing the energy, uncertainty, and ultimate triumph of both the filming and Metallica's bid for survival. It weaves the on-screen stories together with what happened off-screen, revealing intimate details of the band's struggle amid personnel changes, addiction, and controversy. In part because Berlinger was one of the only witnesses to the intensive group-therapy sessions and numerous band meetings, his account of his experience filming the band is the most honest and deeply probing book about Metallica---or any rock band---ever written.
This is the book both Metallica and film fans have dreamed of---a stark and honest look at one of rock's most important bands through the eyes of one of the most provocative documentary filmmakers working today.
Berlinger's book about the experience reveals the stories behind the documentary Some Kind of Monster, capturing the energy, uncertainty, and ultimate triumph of both the filming and Metallica's bid for survival. It weaves the on-screen stories together with what happened off-screen, revealing intimate details of the band's struggle amid personnel changes, addiction, and controversy. In part because Berlinger was one of the only witnesses to the intensive group-therapy sessions and numerous band meetings, his account of his experience filming the band is the most honest and deeply probing book about Metallica---or any rock band---ever written.
This is the book both Metallica and film fans have dreamed of---a stark and honest look at one of rock's most important bands through the eyes of one of the most provocative documentary filmmakers working today.
336 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2004
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
July 1, 2013
Hmmm..what to say about this book. I've been a big Metallica fan for 25+ years now and I love the documentary/movie "Some Kind of Monster" so I was looking forward to reading this book about the making of the documentary and getting some extra insight into what went on behind the scenes.
However, This book was written by the film-maker Joe Berlinger, who was one of the directors of the documentary film and he seemed to spend large portions of the book telling us all about his other works such as "Brothers Keeper", "Paradise Lost" and the ill fated "Blair Witch 2". Don't get me wrong, I understand giving some background and insight into his other works to establish his credentials as a film-maker/documentation...but when he is still making reference to his earlier works at the 230 pages plus point of the book I felt like shouting "Enough already!" I get it, you made some films before you did this one. My reason for wanting to read a book entitled "Metallica: This Monster Lives: The Inside Story of Some Kind of Monster" is because I wanted to read about Metallica and the making of THAT film, not everything else he'd ever done..and it's not as if it's just a passing reference either, he tells the story of the whole "Blair Witch 2" saga in some depth.
Now that all said, if you are a fan of the band and can wade through all this "filler" there are nuggets and gems to be found in here, which is what I wanted...an inside look "behind the curtain" of the biggest metal band in the world. I just felt that as they had filmed 1600 hours plus of footage that we'd get more stories of things that didn't make it into the final film..but there just wasn't enough of them for me to give the book more than 3 stars.
So if you are little more than a passing fan, this book probably isn't for you..but if you are a fan of the band then I would say that it's definitely worth the read.
However, This book was written by the film-maker Joe Berlinger, who was one of the directors of the documentary film and he seemed to spend large portions of the book telling us all about his other works such as "Brothers Keeper", "Paradise Lost" and the ill fated "Blair Witch 2". Don't get me wrong, I understand giving some background and insight into his other works to establish his credentials as a film-maker/documentation...but when he is still making reference to his earlier works at the 230 pages plus point of the book I felt like shouting "Enough already!" I get it, you made some films before you did this one. My reason for wanting to read a book entitled "Metallica: This Monster Lives: The Inside Story of Some Kind of Monster" is because I wanted to read about Metallica and the making of THAT film, not everything else he'd ever done..and it's not as if it's just a passing reference either, he tells the story of the whole "Blair Witch 2" saga in some depth.
Now that all said, if you are a fan of the band and can wade through all this "filler" there are nuggets and gems to be found in here, which is what I wanted...an inside look "behind the curtain" of the biggest metal band in the world. I just felt that as they had filmed 1600 hours plus of footage that we'd get more stories of things that didn't make it into the final film..but there just wasn't enough of them for me to give the book more than 3 stars.
So if you are little more than a passing fan, this book probably isn't for you..but if you are a fan of the band then I would say that it's definitely worth the read.
September 1, 2014
I'll say three and a half stars. This is the inside story of the making of the Metallica documentary called "Some Kind of Monster." The primary filmmaker, Joe Berlinger, wrote the book, with help from someone named Greg Milner apparently. I've seen the movie and thought it was pretty good but this gives a lot more detail and gives information that couldn't be fitted into a movie. Here's what I liked best, 1) the stuff about Metallica and the extra details that the movie didn't show, 2) the reasons why some material that was filmed didn't make it into the movie, 3) way in which the material was often presented out of chronological order in order to show the "essence" of the story rather than an absolute straight ahead telling, and 4) the reactions of Metallica to the movie. Other than the fact that I don’t really buy the “essence� comment, I liked all this material.
What I didn't care as much for: a lot of information given by Joe Berlinger about his previous documentaries and how much he grew as a person while making this one. I'm in no way, shape, or form a movie buff or even interested in the whole field of film. This material might prove much more interesting to someone who is. The one thing I did find interesting was that Berlinger is the guy who handled the filming of Blair Witch 2, which was critically lambasted but which was actually far superior to the original Blair Witch movie. That movie was a completely faked documentary, or mockumentary. In other words, Blair Witch 1 was one of the silliest moments in film history. Berlinger talked about how he didn’t like the concept of the mockumentary and I absolutely agree with him and this upped my respect for him considerably.
All in all, I liked the book quite a lot. It was perhaps a little long, and I might have liked a little more selected pieces of dialogue from the band, but it was worth my time.
What I didn't care as much for: a lot of information given by Joe Berlinger about his previous documentaries and how much he grew as a person while making this one. I'm in no way, shape, or form a movie buff or even interested in the whole field of film. This material might prove much more interesting to someone who is. The one thing I did find interesting was that Berlinger is the guy who handled the filming of Blair Witch 2, which was critically lambasted but which was actually far superior to the original Blair Witch movie. That movie was a completely faked documentary, or mockumentary. In other words, Blair Witch 1 was one of the silliest moments in film history. Berlinger talked about how he didn’t like the concept of the mockumentary and I absolutely agree with him and this upped my respect for him considerably.
All in all, I liked the book quite a lot. It was perhaps a little long, and I might have liked a little more selected pieces of dialogue from the band, but it was worth my time.
March 25, 2019
A great story told with no craft of storytelling.
June 18, 2019
It had moments that peaked my interest, which kept me reading. But it's a book that I wont ever pick up again.
October 31, 2009
I was very disappointed in this book. As a huge Metallica fan, I was looking forward to seeing a more behind the scenes look at the making of the Some Kind of Monster documentary. What I got was the author, the same guy who directed the movie, spending more time on his earlier projects, when he used Metallica's music in a movie called My Brother's Keeper. Rather than focusing on his experience with one of the greatest bands of all time, he constantly refers to this other movie and the events that inspired it. If he wanted to talk about that movie he needed to write a book on it exclusively. The parts where he does deal with the band are interesting. If you liked the movie, you may want to give this a chance.
April 8, 2011
Cry-baby spoiled corporate rockstars who have everything at their disposal, yet can't cope w/ the everyday problems the rest of us have to deal with on a daily basis? I'm sorry, but I have ZERO pity for you guys.
You forgot how to write great riffs while you were busy building up your mega-ego, and stacking up all that money at the same time.
IF CLIFF BURTON WERE ALIVE, HE'D HAVE QUIT A LONG TIME AGO...
You forgot how to write great riffs while you were busy building up your mega-ego, and stacking up all that money at the same time.
IF CLIFF BURTON WERE ALIVE, HE'D HAVE QUIT A LONG TIME AGO...
June 9, 2019
This book - a behind-the-scenes account of the making of the “Metallica in therapy� documentary written by one of the filmmakers - gives me the same basic feel as the documentary itself. In some ways, it’s cool how open and vulnerable everything surrounding the project was, with the biggest rock band in the world going through very human emotional chaos and needing therapy. On the other hand, it’s still weird to see these rich rock stars taking lovey-dovey advice from a dude in Cosby sweaters. Overall, I think the story is well-done, and the book is written capably, but there are a few warts, just like in the doc. A few too many excuses, a little too much self-pity about the failed “Blair Witch 2� fiasco the author directed. And a little more grandstanding by the band than is probably totally necessary. But still, this is interesting as hell.
October 31, 2021
I did have my preconceived notions about this as I started, having watched the documentary back in the early 2000's. I had wondered if they HAD learned anything to begin with and then they seemed to just want to get rid of their therapist. Reading it now, I understand a little more clearer. And it very much started with James Hetfield. James and Jason. James and Lars. The man had to let go a little and had to understand. Not a great story and I'll admit, Metallica is not my #1 favorite band. But not only was it a learning experience for the band as well the filmmakers but I think readers could learn a little too. Since finishing this book, I've been debating whether I would read it again. And yes I would.
April 10, 2021
3.0
I agree with many of he reviews here. First I was angry that the book was not so much about Metallica as it was about filming a documentary about Metallica. But then it's true that the blurbs on the back cover do pretty much say so. So my bad for not reading them before buying. Then the book itself was OK. Again, this is not The Dirt. There are some good chapters, some good stuff, but also some fillers that I just skimmed through. I liked the parts about Trujillo joining the band and, maybe surprisingly, the final chapters on the decisions and possibilities to distribute and market the final product.
I agree with many of he reviews here. First I was angry that the book was not so much about Metallica as it was about filming a documentary about Metallica. But then it's true that the blurbs on the back cover do pretty much say so. So my bad for not reading them before buying. Then the book itself was OK. Again, this is not The Dirt. There are some good chapters, some good stuff, but also some fillers that I just skimmed through. I liked the parts about Trujillo joining the band and, maybe surprisingly, the final chapters on the decisions and possibilities to distribute and market the final product.
December 31, 2017
This book is therapy and I believe everyone should read it. You don't need to be a Metallica fan to understand it. In fact, you can listen to the songs the book references to for better understanding of what the director is saying, but you can skip it. For a band like Metallica to show the vulnerable side, including most of their flaws, is commendable. I have a new found respect for everyone in Metallica after watching the documentary and reading this book. Couldn't have asked for a better end to 2017.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 17, 2022
This book was entertaining. If you're into the dynamics & the behind-the-scene psychology of a famous band this is what you 'll like probably. It's an easy, honest and fun insight. The storytelling could be more coherent perhaps. Not a huge fan of this band , and liked it overall nevertheless. Had a fun afternoon reading this outside.
October 18, 2022
This was a must-read for me, as most people know I reference this documentary regularly. To get even more information on it was necessary and I’m almost mad I didn’t know this book existed for so long. I almost forewent reading the appendix of the Oslo interviews and man I’m glad I didn’t because Papa Het really zings ‘em at the end.
March 12, 2024
Probably my favorite book I've ever read. Berlinger adds unimaginable extra depth to his already deep film by sharing what it was like to make it. Besides, even without that element, I just enjoyed a nice lengthy book about what Metallica is actually like behind the scenes, and Berlinger is such a keen observer of them!
April 9, 2021
Hearing From the Fly on the Wall
As the saying goes, “I’d love to be a fly on the wall for that conversation.� This book feels like the fly’s perspective. Couldn’t put it down, awesome read! Very ironic now too since James went back to rehab years later
As the saying goes, “I’d love to be a fly on the wall for that conversation.� This book feels like the fly’s perspective. Couldn’t put it down, awesome read! Very ironic now too since James went back to rehab years later
April 11, 2021
I really enjoyed the book. I enjoyed the many layers of this story, from learning about film making and documentaries, to learning about Metallica's interpersonal struggles. Resentment can be a subtle foe.
September 24, 2021
Wasn't sure what to expect here but it was an interesting read - haven't seen the film since it came out I expect so perhaps would have been more impactful if it was fresh in my mind. Does give some good insight into why St Anger is what it is (terrible).
January 31, 2019
Good companion piece to the film. The author tends to repeat things an awful lot though
April 25, 2021
This is not a Metallic history book.
March 25, 2023
Genuinely, one of my favorites at the moment, the movie was so groundbreaking and so different, and adding this narrative to it added a lot to the overall message and goal of the monster.
October 22, 2024
Them boys needed some therapy!
January 11, 2023
Only for "SKOM" documentary fans.
This book adds a few interesting bits of information that didn't make it into the documentary, such as the filming crew's daily life relationship with the band, how some meetings, such as Dave Mustaine's, happened, a lot of discussion with the band's management, a little more in depth explanation about Phil Towle's involvement with the band, how the film was made on the edition room, and so on. In general, it follows the same narrative arc as the documentary, beginning with the band breaking up and ending with Metallica on tour.
The bad part is that in order to get to the juicy details, you have to read pages and pages about one of the director's life, his previous films, how he wasn't on good terms with his partner, how he nearly ruined his career, and, since this was released in 2004, a good dose of unnecessary 9/11 drama. All of this is repeated throughout the book.
The bright side is, of course, having complete access to the band during one of their worst moments and learning how they got through it. Many of the things the author mentions are on the Extras DVD, but it's always nice to get more information about those scenes as well.
Ngl this book will satisfy you. If you are only a Metallica fan, you may be disappointed by this period in the band and the author's description of St. Anger as an incredible record with incredible songs.
This book adds a few interesting bits of information that didn't make it into the documentary, such as the filming crew's daily life relationship with the band, how some meetings, such as Dave Mustaine's, happened, a lot of discussion with the band's management, a little more in depth explanation about Phil Towle's involvement with the band, how the film was made on the edition room, and so on. In general, it follows the same narrative arc as the documentary, beginning with the band breaking up and ending with Metallica on tour.
The bad part is that in order to get to the juicy details, you have to read pages and pages about one of the director's life, his previous films, how he wasn't on good terms with his partner, how he nearly ruined his career, and, since this was released in 2004, a good dose of unnecessary 9/11 drama. All of this is repeated throughout the book.
The bright side is, of course, having complete access to the band during one of their worst moments and learning how they got through it. Many of the things the author mentions are on the Extras DVD, but it's always nice to get more information about those scenes as well.
Ngl this book will satisfy you. If you are only a Metallica fan, you may be disappointed by this period in the band and the author's description of St. Anger as an incredible record with incredible songs.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 3, 2007
I'm not really a fan of Metallica, but the documentary "Some Kind of Monster" is fascinating. Though it's overlong, you shouldn't miss this surreal depiction of four middle-aged millionaires struggling to maintain their status as angry-tormented-rock stars. The movie certainly doesn't help Metallica's image, but it is one of the most honest and compelling chronicles of a band I've ever seen.
To sum up for those who haven't seen it: initially the band conceived of "Some Kind of Monster" as a glorified promotional video that they'd show on late night TV, to drum up interest in their latest cd. But in the course of filming, the band fell apart. Their testy lead singer James Hetfield abruptly entered rehab, abandoning work on the new album. To make things worse, their long suffering bassist Jason Newsted also resigned. At the time, nobody thought Metallica could survive.
Given how much money the band generates, their managers and corporate backers aren't willing to let it disintegrate without a fight. Instead, they hire a new age therapist (!) to help the band "work through its issues." Amazingly, the band readily accepts this, and before long they're talking in the language of "recovery" and "self-esteem." Metallica in therapy! It's exactly as absurd as it sounds, and yet there's no denying that these men have crazy amounts of animosity and tension in their relationships with each other.
The great thing about documentaries is that their narrative arc is often unknown until late in the game. It takes a lot of talent (not to mention courage) to start making a film when you don't know how it's going to end, or what the story (if any) will be. If Metallica hadn't gone through all the turmoil depicted in the film, would there even have been a film? It takes lots of editing and insight to transform thousands of hours of raw footage into anything coherent, let alone compelling. Other issues: how do you gain the trust of people whose lives you're filming? How do you make the camera unobtrusive? Given that pure objectivity is impossible, how do you negotiate a balance between impartial observation and participation in the story?
"This Monster Lives" provides some interesting insight into this process. Joe Berlinger (the film's executive producer and director) has no qualms about exposing the messy sausage making process that results in the final product.
Through the course of the book, you see Berlinger and his partner Bruce Sinofsky gain the trust of the band. Drummer Lars Ulrich is particularly interesting. His urbane mannerisms and bohemian European roots are at odds with Hetfield's "Joe Six-Pack rocker" image, but Ulrich's interest in movie making and experimental art lead him to champion the movie even when it becomes clear that it's not going to help the band's metal image at all. Particularly interesting is Berliner's discussion of the riveting scene in the movie where Ulrich auctions off his art collection at Christies for millions of dollars. According to Berlinger it's no exaggeration to say EVERY PERSON associated with the band thought it was a bad idea to include that scene, as it makes Ulrich look like an effete rich asshole. Ulrich however thinks it's important to show that side of himself, and in the end he ignores everyone's advice and lets it stay. I'm glad he did!
To sum up for those who haven't seen it: initially the band conceived of "Some Kind of Monster" as a glorified promotional video that they'd show on late night TV, to drum up interest in their latest cd. But in the course of filming, the band fell apart. Their testy lead singer James Hetfield abruptly entered rehab, abandoning work on the new album. To make things worse, their long suffering bassist Jason Newsted also resigned. At the time, nobody thought Metallica could survive.
Given how much money the band generates, their managers and corporate backers aren't willing to let it disintegrate without a fight. Instead, they hire a new age therapist (!) to help the band "work through its issues." Amazingly, the band readily accepts this, and before long they're talking in the language of "recovery" and "self-esteem." Metallica in therapy! It's exactly as absurd as it sounds, and yet there's no denying that these men have crazy amounts of animosity and tension in their relationships with each other.
The great thing about documentaries is that their narrative arc is often unknown until late in the game. It takes a lot of talent (not to mention courage) to start making a film when you don't know how it's going to end, or what the story (if any) will be. If Metallica hadn't gone through all the turmoil depicted in the film, would there even have been a film? It takes lots of editing and insight to transform thousands of hours of raw footage into anything coherent, let alone compelling. Other issues: how do you gain the trust of people whose lives you're filming? How do you make the camera unobtrusive? Given that pure objectivity is impossible, how do you negotiate a balance between impartial observation and participation in the story?
"This Monster Lives" provides some interesting insight into this process. Joe Berlinger (the film's executive producer and director) has no qualms about exposing the messy sausage making process that results in the final product.
Through the course of the book, you see Berlinger and his partner Bruce Sinofsky gain the trust of the band. Drummer Lars Ulrich is particularly interesting. His urbane mannerisms and bohemian European roots are at odds with Hetfield's "Joe Six-Pack rocker" image, but Ulrich's interest in movie making and experimental art lead him to champion the movie even when it becomes clear that it's not going to help the band's metal image at all. Particularly interesting is Berliner's discussion of the riveting scene in the movie where Ulrich auctions off his art collection at Christies for millions of dollars. According to Berlinger it's no exaggeration to say EVERY PERSON associated with the band thought it was a bad idea to include that scene, as it makes Ulrich look like an effete rich asshole. Ulrich however thinks it's important to show that side of himself, and in the end he ignores everyone's advice and lets it stay. I'm glad he did!
January 23, 2024
"Metallica: This Monster Lives" is a compelling companion to the band's 2004 documentary, "Some Kind Of Monster." Penned by Joe Berlinger, a producer of the film renowned for his work on the 'Paradise Lost' documentary series, this book serves as a behind-the-scenes diary, offering readers a firsthand account of Berlinger's experiences that didn't make it to the big screen.
In this literary journey, Berlinger delves into the tumultuous period of capturing the essence of one of the greatest metal bands, Metallica, during the chaotic 'Some Kind Of Monster' documentary. The book is a treasure trove of additional insights, featuring images and transcribed scenes that complement Berlinger's narrative. What sets it apart is its in-depth exploration of the professional hurdles faced by the producers while the band grappled with internal challenges. It skillfully fills in the gaps left by the documentary, shedding light on significant events like singer/rhythm guitarist James Hetfield's year in rehab.
For those familiar with the film, Berlinger maintains the same tone, oscillating between the euphoria of documenting a legendary band and the brink of abandoning the entire project. The book stands as the perfect companion to the movie, offering an enriching perspective on Metallica's journey. Whether you're a die-hard fan of the band or, more crucially, a devotee of the documentary, "This Monster Lives" is an essential read. It provides an intimate look into the highs and lows of creating a documentary masterpiece and serves as a must-have addition to any Metallica aficionado's collection.
September 2, 2007
This book was written by filmmaker Joe Berlinger, who was one of the directors of the popular documentary film Metallica: Some Kind of Monster. It tells in great detail about the two years he and his filmmaking partner, Bruce Sinofsky, spent making the film. It includes excerpts from counseling sessions that Metallica attended during the filming that provide valuable insight into the world's most famous heavy metal band.
Berlinger says that he learns a great deal from Metallica, that they gave him "gifts that will have a profound impact on my life as a filmmaker, father, husband, collaborator, and friend. I learned all of this from a group of guys, who as far as most of the suburban parents that I hang out with during my daughter's Saturday soccer games are concerned, are incapable of uttering a coherent sentence, let alone imparting such life lessons."
I think that the Berlinger's film and book challenge the way people think about Metallica and those engaged in the subculture of metal music. If you are a Metallica fan, this is a must read. If you are a documentary film buff or a pop culture maven, this is a must read. I also think that many general nonfiction readers will enjoy this book.
Berlinger says that he learns a great deal from Metallica, that they gave him "gifts that will have a profound impact on my life as a filmmaker, father, husband, collaborator, and friend. I learned all of this from a group of guys, who as far as most of the suburban parents that I hang out with during my daughter's Saturday soccer games are concerned, are incapable of uttering a coherent sentence, let alone imparting such life lessons."
I think that the Berlinger's film and book challenge the way people think about Metallica and those engaged in the subculture of metal music. If you are a Metallica fan, this is a must read. If you are a documentary film buff or a pop culture maven, this is a must read. I also think that many general nonfiction readers will enjoy this book.
June 9, 2009
Metallica: This Monster Lives: The inside Story of Some Kind of Monster
Joe Berlinger
Metallica: This Monster Lives: The inside Story of Some Kind of Monster is a documentary of Metallica. Four metal heads, with lots of money struggle to hold onto fame, and fortune. This documentary has behind the scene action and reveals some of Metallica's secrets.
Metallica was on the road to destruction by the time they wanted record an album for the first time in four years. No one thought that they could pull it off. They were literally half a step away from the end of the band. They were some how able to pull it off, and not just that, but become the most successful metal band in all history.
I thought that this book, along with the documentary film was a really good way to learn more about Metallica, and appreciate them more. I never knew that they had any trouble getting where thye were now, until this book. I thought that the fact that its an uncensored documentary, you truly get a first look on how the band was.
I recommend this to any one who wants to learn more about Metallica, or read about a bands journey through their hardest time to keep going.
Joe Berlinger
Metallica: This Monster Lives: The inside Story of Some Kind of Monster is a documentary of Metallica. Four metal heads, with lots of money struggle to hold onto fame, and fortune. This documentary has behind the scene action and reveals some of Metallica's secrets.
Metallica was on the road to destruction by the time they wanted record an album for the first time in four years. No one thought that they could pull it off. They were literally half a step away from the end of the band. They were some how able to pull it off, and not just that, but become the most successful metal band in all history.
I thought that this book, along with the documentary film was a really good way to learn more about Metallica, and appreciate them more. I never knew that they had any trouble getting where thye were now, until this book. I thought that the fact that its an uncensored documentary, you truly get a first look on how the band was.
I recommend this to any one who wants to learn more about Metallica, or read about a bands journey through their hardest time to keep going.
February 17, 2011
One of my favorite books...Pretty much showing what can happen in a band, or better in a friendship. It shows that not only infamous people have problems, but famous people do too.I believe that it was a very good move in a matter of merchandise and that it also gave the fans a chance to now the band on the inside. It also explains a lot about each member and about their producer. Even though Metallica went through many glorious phases they also went through a couple of rough phases and one of them is described in this book.
August 24, 2014
Disclaimer: I read the book before watching the movie.
Well, to be more specific, I gave up attempting to watch the movie after about 30 min, when I wanted nothing more than to punch Lars' smug face. Anyway. I found it very interesting to understand how 'Some Kind of Monster' was, in itself, a very vicious monster: one that took three years in the making and faced numerous hurdles, countless hours of therapy and, probably, just as much footage. An insightful read, if you want a stranger's perspective on how Metallica save itself from dissolution.
Well, to be more specific, I gave up attempting to watch the movie after about 30 min, when I wanted nothing more than to punch Lars' smug face. Anyway. I found it very interesting to understand how 'Some Kind of Monster' was, in itself, a very vicious monster: one that took three years in the making and faced numerous hurdles, countless hours of therapy and, probably, just as much footage. An insightful read, if you want a stranger's perspective on how Metallica save itself from dissolution.
March 28, 2012
As a fan of all things Metallica, this is a great supplement to the film. Obviously, it's much more detailed regarding the transcripts, film-making process, and even dives deep into the territory of how to get a film distributed and the different options you have. I didn't care for that last bit at first, but it became more and more interesting as I read on. If you like Metallica and Some Kind of Monster, you'll really like it. If you also enjoy film-making, you'll love it.
June 27, 2012
Really enjoyed this book - not just because I am a Metallica fan but because of the depth and introspection offered by Joe regarding his time with the band. He tells a very interesting tale of how a band in turmoil learned to become more honest with themselves and each other and thus heal their relationships. He manages to portray the members of Metallica as authentic, honest and intelligent people which is quite contrary as to how they are often perceived.
August 24, 2015
I read this book in the hopes I could get more information about what the band members of Metallica were going through during this time in the bands history. Instead, I read about what the documentary crew went through while filming. There was barely any focus on the actual members of the band. Waste of my time.
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