I have had a few people tell me that I must see a documentary called Heavy Metal In Baghdad. I am pleased to announce today that the film has been picked up for distribution and should be in theaters this upcoming spring! We get the scoop from our friends at movieweb:
The Muslim rock documentary Heavy Metal in Baghdad has been picked up for distribution by Arts Alliance America. Heavy Metal in Baghdad looks at hard rock musicians in war-torn Iraq. It follows the heavy metal band Acrassicauda, whose young members have struggled to survive, both as a band and as residents of Baghdad, since the toppling of Saddam Hussein in 2003. Eddy Morretti directed the film.
Metal thrives in desolate lands. The dismal steel town of Birmingham gave birth to Judas Priest and Black Sabbath; these Metal Gods took the woes of the city and focused it into a blasting, righteous, riff heavy onslaught that would spawn legions of followers. We owe it all to the magic of the Birmingham ley line.
I think it is fantastic that the guys from VBS had the balls to make this documentary. In the midst of hell on earth, Heavy Metal is a resounding chorus of triumph that champions the power of the human will. Some people jog, build birdhouses or have a good cry to relieve stress, but for those that pledge allegiance to metal; listening to (or better yet playing) metal is a favored way to let off steam.
VBS did a fantastic mini doc in the Norwegian mountains where they interviewed Ghaal from Gorgoroth. It is called True Norwegian Black Metal; I loved it, and hope this doc is just as kick-ass. I will be watching these dudes for upcoming projects, they have a rad online TV channel and have gobs of original content that is bitchin’.
At this point in history, Iraq could possibly be one of the toughest places on earth to play and enjoy metal music. I am looking forward to watching the tale of these brave brothers in metal, and am glad we can support them by spreading their story. I can’t wait to see Heavy Metal In Baghdad, and hope you join me as we support these metal champions! Below is the trailer for your enjoyment!
