The legendary Grammy-winning heavy metal icons, Judas Priest, are set to take centre stage at the 76th Berlinale – Berlin International Film Festival. Their highly anticipated new documentary, The Ballad Of Judas Priest, will receive its world premiere at the prestigious event, which runs from 12–22 February.

The Berlinale is globally renowned as one of the largest and most influential public film festivals. Established in 1951 as a “showcase of the free world,” it has evolved into a vital platform for intercultural exchange and critical social exploration. For Judas Priest, debuting their life story at such a politically and culturally significant venue cements their status as more than just a band, but a global cultural phenomenon.

The documentary is co-directed by acclaimed filmmaker Sam Dunn (Metal: A Headbanger’s Journey) and Tom Morello of Rage Against the Machine, marking Morello’s directorial debut. The film explores the band’s 50-year journey, highlighting how they defined the sound and the “leather and studs” look of heavy metal while making the genre a more inclusive space.

Featuring anthems like “Breaking The Law” and “You’ve Got Another Thing Comin'”, the film promises an intimate, unfiltered look at the band’s resilience. Co-director Sam Dunn shared his excitement, stating: “Beyond excited for all our German metalheads to get the first look.”

The band, who were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2022, described the film as a definitive look at their history. In a collective statement, Judas Priest said:

“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… the cassock comes off, revealing Priest in all its metal glory!”

Following the premiere, the band will continue their global momentum, including a co-headlining North American tour with Alice Cooper this autumn.

About Judas Priest

Formed in the industrial heartland of Birmingham, England, Judas Priest are the definitive architects of heavy metal. Since their debut in the early 1970s, they have sold over 50 million records and released 19 studio albums. Led by the soaring vocals of Rob Halford and a dual-guitar attack, they pioneered the genre’s aesthetic and sound. In 2024, they made history with Invincible Shield, becoming the first metal band to release studio albums spanning a 50-year career.