Receiving unique, unfettered access, filmmakers Berlinger and Sinofsky followed Metallica over two and a half years as they faced monumental personal and professional challenges that threatened to destroy the band as they went back to the studio to record their first album in four years. Berlinger's book about the experience reveals the stories behind the film, capturing more than could ever be expressed in a two hour film. This is the book fans have dreamed of - a stark and honest look at one of rock's most important bands by one of the most provocative documentary makers around.