Name: Metal Lords
Genre: Comedy, Drama, Music
Released: 2022-04-08T00:00:00+00:00
Cast: Jaeden Martell, Adrian Greensmith, Isis Hainsworth, Noah Urrea, Brett Gelman

The opening scene of Metal Lords sets the tone with Kevin Schlieb’s deadpan narration over a montage of him and his best friend Hunter Sylvester, two misfit high schoolers, bumbling through their daily lives. It’s a familiar setup: outsiders seeking glory through music, but director Peter Sollett and writer D.B. Weiss give it a metal edge.

The film follows Kevin (Jaeden Martell) and Hunter (Adrian Greensmith), who are determined to win their high school’s Battle of the Bands contest. The first 40 minutes are fairly generic, with the duo facing typical teenage struggles—bullying, social awkwardness, and parental disapproval—but it’s when the story dives into the complexities of their friendship and individual growth that Metal Lords finds its footing.

What works best is the dynamic between Martell and Greensmith. Their chemistry is palpable, capturing the essence of a lifelong friendship filled with loyalty and tension. Martell, in particular, shines as Kevin, bringing a quiet intensity to his role. The film also benefits from its soundtrack, featuring original songs by executive producer Tom Morello. The music is authentic and adds a layer of credibility to the metal narrative.

However, Metal Lords stumbles in its attempt to blend comedy with drama. Some jokes fall flat, and the humor often feels forced, especially when Hunter’s character is reduced to a stereotypical 80s metalhead in a modern setting. The film’s pacing also suffers from a meandering middle act, where the plot loses momentum as it juggles multiple subplots.

The film’s climax at the Battle of the Bands contest is satisfying but predictable. The resolution of Kevin and Hunter’s conflict feels earned, thanks to strong performances by Martell and Greensmith. Yet, the film’s attempt to tackle deeper themes—such as the redemptive power of music and the complexities of friendship—is somewhat undermined by its reliance on clichés.

In the end, Metal Lords is a good-natured and enjoyable coming-of-age story that metal fans will appreciate for its authenticity.