The official documentary chronicling the 50-plus-year history of metal pioneers JUDAS PRIEST received its North American premiere at the Hot Docs Canadian International Documentary Festival in Toronto on Sunday, April 26.
The documentary, directed by Sam Dunn and Tom Morello, chronicles the band's history through interviews with former guitarist Kenneth "K.K." Downing and other key figures from the band's past.
Following the screening, co-director Sam Dunn answered a few questions about the film, including the decision to interview Downing for the documentary despite his previous strained relationships with his former bandmates.
Dunn explained that getting Downing on board was a challenge, but Morello connected with him and helped secure the interview.
However, Dunn acknowledged that there are still outstanding legal issues between Downing and the band, which makes it tricky to discuss some aspects of the film.
As for whether former JUDAS PRIEST singer Tim "Ripper" Owens was approached to appear in the film, Dunn said no, citing the complexity of the story and the need to balance what to include and what not to include.
This past February, Halford was asked by Germany's Metal Hammer magazine about Downing being interviewed for the documentary despite their previous strained relationships with him.
Rob explained that respect is still there between himself and Downing, but acknowledged it wasn't an easy decision to include him in the film.
When pressed about the possibility of a reunion between PRIEST and Downing, Halford said he thinks what Downing said in the documentary was simple and straightforward, but didn't elaborate further.
The Ballad Of Judas Priest received its world premiere at the 76th Berlinale – Berlin International Film Festival in February.,JUDAS PRIEST's current touring lineup consists of singer Rob Halford, bassist Ian Hill, guitarists Richie Faulkner and Andy Sneap and drummer Scott Travis.
Tipton was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease more than 15 years ago but announced in early 2018 he was going to sit out touring activities in support of PRIEST's "Firepower" album.,The documentary is a production of Banger Films and directed by Sam Dunn and Tom Morello.
Producers include Scot McFadyen and Sam Dunn.
It is executive produced by Tom Morello, Rick Krim, Sheila Stepanek and Jayne Andrews.
The film is presented and distributed by Sony Music Vision.,The JUDAS PRIEST members who got inducted include current members Halford, Hill, Tipton and Travis, along with former members Downing, and late drummers Les Binks and Dave Holland.,At the 2022 Rock Hall, Halford, Hill, Tipton and Travis were joined by Binks, Downing and Faulkner for a three-song medley performance consisting of "You've Got Another Thing Comin'", "Breaking The Law" and "Living After Midnight".
Special Presentation D: Sam Dunn, Tom Morello | Canada, USA | 98 min,,Posted by Hot Docs Canadian International Documentary Festival on Saturday, March 28, 2026"