What documentary chronicles the making and touring of Metallica's The Black Album?

A Year and a Half in the Life of Metallica chronicles the making and touring of Metallica's The Black Album.

The documentary follows the band during the album's creation and the extensive touring that followed. It captures recording sessions, production disagreements, songwriting discussions, backstage activity, and performances surrounding the record's rise to worldwide prominence.

The film is especially useful for understanding the tension between Metallica and producer Bob Rock. Rock pushed the members toward more collaborative recording, repeated takes, different vocal approaches, and a more polished overall sound.

The title refers to the lengthy period covered by the project rather than to the album's official name. It should not be confused with Some Kind of Monster, a later documentary focused largely on the troubled production of St. Anger.