Death by Metal

In the sleepy town of Altamonte Springs, Florida, a young Chuck Schuldiner was already on the cusp of creating something extraordinary. The film Death by Metal sets its sights on chronicling the incredible journey of Schuldiner, frontman of the influential death metal band, Death, as he navigated the grueling, often thankless world of underground music. What unfolds is a captivating tale of perseverance, unrelenting ambition, and a steadfast dedication to one's art. Born on May 13, 1967, Chuck Schuldiner is introduced as a driven and enigmatic individual, with a deep-seated passion for music that borders on the obsessive. As a teenager, Schuldiner immersed himself in the local music scene, drawing inspiration from a variety of sources, including the iconic metal bands of the 1980s. His earliest forays into music took the form of various bands, with Death emerging in 1983 as a vehicle for Schuldiner's vision. The documentary's early stages focus intently on the band's humble beginnings, showcasing the embryonic stages of their sound as they slowly coalesced into a cohesive unit. With Chuck Schuldiner at the helm, supported by a revolving cast of musicians, Death's sound evolved rapidly, incorporating the nuances of metal and the raw brutality of hardcore punk. One of the most pivotal aspects of Death by Metal is its unflinching portrayal of the highs and lows that come with following one's artistic passion. The documentary offers a sobering look at the financial struggles and creative setbacks that frequently afflicted Death throughout their career. Despite these challenges, Schuldiner and his cohorts persevered, driven by an unwavering commitment to their music. As the band's reputation began to spread throughout the underground metal scene, Death by Metal captures the pivotal moment when they caught the attention of the influential metal label, Combat Records. The release of their 1987 EP, 'Reign of Terror,' marked a significant milestone in the band's development, showcasing their burgeoning technical prowess and lyrical depth. Death's early years were also defined by the tumultuous relationships with other members, each bringing their own distinct talents and personalities to the table. From the early days of Paul Masvidal and Scott Carlson, to the later additions of Gene Hoglan and Terry Butler, each musician brought a fresh perspective to the table, ultimately molding the band's sound into a formidable force. One of the most compelling aspects of Death by Metal is its exploration of Chuck Schuldiner's vision for the band. A master wordsmith and melodic genius, Schuldiner's lyrics delve into themes of personal struggle, mortality, and existential crises. As the documentary progresses, it becomes evident that these themes are an integral part of Schuldiner's artistic identity, reflecting his own struggles with the complexities of life and death. Throughout its runtime, Death by Metal presents a candid, often brutal account of the band's inner workings, revealing the creative tensions and ego clashes that frequently arose. From the early tensions between Schuldiner and his original guitarist, Paul Masvidal, to the later conflicts with vocalist, Matt Suwara, the documentary shines a harsh light on the often-venal world of underground rock. Despite the numerous setbacks and frustrations that dogged Death throughout their career, the band remained steadfast in their pursuit of musical innovation. Their 1988 album 'Leprosy' stands as a testament to their unyielding dedication, boasting a level of technical sophistication and sonic ferocity that left many in the metal scene stunned. As the years went by, Death's influence continued to seep into the wider metal community. The band's sonic template inspired a veritable sea of other acts, from the melodic grandeur of Paradise Lost, to the brutal, gut-checking ferocity of Morbid Angel. Death by Metal skillfully interweaves these connections, highlighting the lasting impact Schuldiner's work has had on the world of metal. The film's final stages find Death navigating the turbulent landscape of the late 1980s and early 1990s, with the band experiencing a series of significant changes in personnel and label support. Despite these setbacks, the group's music continued to evolve, incorporating elements of progressive rock and melodic sensibilities into their sound. Chuck Schuldiner's unwavering dedication to his art ultimately took a devastating toll on his health, with the musician succumbing to a brain tumor in 2001. As the documentary comes full circle, it offers a poignant tribute to Schuldiner's lasting legacy, highlighting his tireless commitment to the music he created and the countless lives that were touched by his work. Death by Metal serves as a stirring tribute to the enduring power of music to transcend the trials and tribulations of everyday life. Through its unflinching portrayal of the trials and setbacks that faced Death, the film offers a searing testament to the unyielding passion and drive that defines the true artist.