While you’re eating your lunch today, enjoy this ten minute short from Sundance, titled simply “Black Metal”. Directed by Kat Candler, the short follows the singer of a black metal band as he finds out that a fan of his has murdered someone as tribute. The on point soundtrack features songs from black metal/doom metal bands such as Vespiran Sorrow, Pallbearer, and Honed Almighty. While this film could’ve easily been a really exploitative narrative that mirrors the dialogue being had today about violent video games/movies/music, it’s actually fairly understated and pensive. In the short running time, Candler quietly explores the weird psychological effect of (partially) inspiring murder.

“Understated” and “pensive” are rarely associated with black metal in any regard, but seeing the genre treated seriously in cinema is refreshing. Although, the film feels short in running time and message, this could be the genesis of a well done full length drama about black metal, violence, and media inspiring reality. Look forward to seeing more from Kat Candler.

- raythedestroyer