The wait is over for IRON MAIDEN fans worldwide. The official documentary Iron Maiden: Burning Ambition received its world premiere at Cineworld Leicester Square in London on May 5, 2026, with a red-carpet event hosted by former MTV Headbangers Ball presenter Vanessa Warwick.
Directed by Malcolm Venville — known for Churchill At War — and produced by Dominic Freeman of Spirits In The Forest: A Depeche Mode Film fame, the approximately 90-minute film chronicles IRON MAIDEN's extraordinary five-decade journey with unprecedented access to the band's official archives.
What makes Burning Ambition particularly compelling is its roster of admirers. The film features testimonials from METALLICA drummer Lars Ulrich, actor Javier Bardem, KISS co-founder Gene Simmons, and Public Enemy's Chuck D — testament to IRON MAIDEN's reach far beyond the metal world.
The band took a deliberately hands-off editorial approach. Vocalist Bruce Dickinson emphasized: "We wanted someone external — a real documentary about us, not by us." Bassist and founding member Steve Harris added that the aim was to show the world who IRON MAIDEN truly are, through outside eyes. Drummer Nicko McBrain was reportedly moved by fan testimonies featured throughout the film.
The documentary hits theaters worldwide for a limited engagement beginning May 7, 2026. IRON MAIDEN continue their "Run For Your Lives" world tour, with a headline slot at EddFest in Knebworth Park scheduled for July 11.