Tom Morello, the Rage Against the Machine guitarist and political activist, has described his directorial debut 'The Ballad of Judas Priest' as a chance to 'fight fascism' while celebrating heavy metal. Speaking at the Berlin Film Festival press conference, Morello said: 'What a time to be alive, where you can both make a documentary about one of your favorite bands and fight fascism at the same time.'
The documentary, co-directed with Sam Dunn, traces the heavy metal pioneers from their working-class origins in England's Black Country to their Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction. It also explores vocalist Rob Halford's struggle as a closeted gay man and the band's trial during the 1980s Satanic panic.
Morello highlighted the political nature of the band, noting that their Los Angeles audience is 'more than 50% Latino' and includes many gay couples. He said: 'That community and the unity and the harmony that exists at a Judas Priest show is in some ways a model for how we all can do better.'
Halford, also present at the press conference, said he channels his anger into songwriting, particularly regarding injustice faced by the LGBTQ+ community. He added: 'On the last album, I'm not going to say his name but I talk about that person,' likely referring to Donald Trump.
The Berlin Film Festival has faced scrutiny this year after jury president Wim Wenders said artists should 'stay out of politics.' Festival chief Tricia Tuttle later clarified that artists are free to exercise their right to free speech.
