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Lamb Of God ‘As The Palaces Burn’ Documentary Review
We sent our resident metalhead Mercedes Brown down to the premiere of Lamb Of God‘s new documentary As The Palaces Burn, which set out to chart the touring life of one of the metal community’s most respected bands, but instead shone a light onto one passionate performer’s worst nightmare…
“If it weren’t for music, I’d probably be in prison or dead.”
In retrospect, an ironic statement.
‘As Palaces Burn’ opens with Lamb Of God frontman Randy Blythe sitting by the James River in Virginia. Not the rock star Randy Blythe. The mortal Randy Blythe. Instead of depicting the wild and predictably alcohol-infused lives Lamb Of God previously led, this documentary approaches from a different angle. The band are shown as the humble, down-to-earth family men, which makes the events in the second half all the more horrific. Don’t get me wrong, it doesn’t cloud the reality of it, though; the whole film is brutally honest – it touches on Blythe’s battle with intoxication and the subsequent pressures the band had to face and overcome. In fact, it’s all pretty emotional from the start – instantly dragging the viewer into their everyday lives and struggles. However, instead of conforming to the stereotypical formula of a music documentary, it interestingly shifts the spotlight from the band to the fans.
From here on, it’s basically a different film; but to be honest, you’ll be far too captivated and moved to even care about that…simply incredible
The first half hour takes viewers on a cultural journey across India and Colombia –focussing on fans from completely different backgrounds and lifestyles with the same burning passion for music. This section of the film is truly intriguing as it depicts the strength and importance of heavy music internationally, in a way that any individual can relate to. Additionally, it shows how much the band appreciates and cares for their fans. Even though it sets a totally different tone from the rest of the film, the first half provides a strong platform for the second half to take place…
The band arrives in Prague. Within moments, it takes a dark, dark turn. From here on, it’s basically a different film; but to be honest, you’ll be far too captivated and moved to even care about that. For those unaware of the events, 19 year-old fan Daniel Nosek sustained head injuries during a Lamb Of God show in Prague, which ultimately led to his death. Randy Blythe, unaware of the incident, returned to Czech land two years later – only to be faced with manslaughter charges. Naturally, there were plenty of rumours lost in translation at the time, but this documentary takes you through the detailed process of the trail and clears everything up – everything. From the ongoing pain throughout the trial (from all perspectives) to the haunting closing speech from Daniel’s Uncle; nothing is kept from the audience.
Without giving too many intricate details away, the whole film is fascinating, thrilling and moving: for fans and non-fans alike. From the start through to the very end of the film, you’ll go through a pallet of emotions. You’ll laugh. You’ll cry. You’ll feel everything in between. In all honesty, there are no words that could possibly do this film justice. It’s simply incredible.
– Mercedes Brown