Home / Films / Iron Maiden: Burning Ambition

Iron Maiden: Burning Ambition

2026 · 1h 45m · Malcolm Venville · Documentary · Music
English

With unprecedented access to the official archives and intimate recollections from the band, both current and past, Iron Maiden: Burning Ambition invites fans to experience one of the most iconic journeys in music history. Spanning five decades, this electrifying documentary charts the band’s rise from the pubs of East London to the world’s biggest stadiums. Featuring exclusive interviews with band members and contributors such as Javier Bardem, Lars Ulrich and Chuck D, as well as all-new animated sequences of the band's legendary mascot, Eddie, the film offers a rare and intimate look at Iron Maiden’s uncompromising vision and unwavering connection with their truly global army of fans.

Why see it

From the editors

Iron Maiden: Burning Ambition is a 105‑minute documentary that takes you on a whirlwind tour through the band’s legendary five‑decade career. With unprecedented access to the official archives and intimate recollections from both current and former members, the film charts Iron Maiden’s rise from the pubs of East London to the world’s biggest stadiums.

What makes this documentary stand out is the mix of real‑life footage and fresh creative touches. You’ll hear exclusive interviews with the band’s members and a handful of high‑profile contributors, including Javier Bardem, Lars Ulrich and Chuck D. The film also features all‑new animated sequences that bring the band’s iconic mascot, Eddie, to life in a way you’ve never seen before. These animated moments add a playful, visual layer that complements the raw, behind‑the‑scenes storytelling.

The documentary offers a rare and intimate look at Iron Maiden’s uncompromising vision and unwavering connection with their truly global army of fans. It’s not just a history lesson; it’s a celebration of the band’s relentless energy, their creative evolution, and the bond they share with listeners around the world.

If you’re a long‑time Iron Maiden fan, this film is a treasure trove. The behind‑the‑scenes access and personal anecdotes give you a deeper understanding of the band’s journey and the people who made it happen. Even if you’re not a hardcore metalhead, the documentary’s focus on perseverance, artistic integrity, and the power of music to unite people can resonate with anyone who appreciates a good story of ambition and passion.

On the flip side, if you’re not into heavy metal or you prefer fast‑paced action movies over reflective documentaries, you might find the pacing a bit slow. The film leans heavily on interviews and archival footage, so it’s more about the narrative and the band’s legacy than high‑energy concert footage.

Overall, Iron Maiden: Burning Ambition is a must‑watch for anyone who loves music history, enjoys in‑depth band documentaries, or simply wants to see how a group of musicians turned a local pub act into a global phenomenon. The blend of exclusive interviews, archival gems, and fresh animated sequences makes for an engaging, heartfelt tribute to one of rock’s most iconic bands.

Not currently screening in Madrid

No upcoming showtimes at the cinemas we track. New schedules land every week.

Who made it

Cast

Steve Harris
Steve Harris
Self
Bruce Dickinson
Bruce Dickinson
Self
Nicko McBrain
Nicko McBrain
Self
Adrian Smith
Adrian Smith
Self
Dave Murray
Dave Murray
Self
Janick Gers
Janick Gers
Self
Blaze Bayley
Blaze Bayley
Self
RS
Rod Smallwood
Self
Chuck D
Chuck D
Self
Simon Gallup
Simon Gallup
Self

Crew

Malcolm Venville
Malcolm Venville
Directing

Details

Title Iron Maiden: Burning Ambition
Year 2026
Runtime 1h 45m
Spoken Language English
Genre Documentary · Music
Director Malcolm Venville
Rotten Tomatoes (Critics) 88%
IMDb ID tt36163614

More like this

Sharing genres with Iron Maiden: Burning Ambition
Browse all films