Metalocalypse: Army of the Doomstar

Dethklok is back in a full-length effort (well, mostly; it’s an hour and 23 minutes) that has the band battling inner demons while trying to write a song of salvation that can save the world.

Metalocalypse: Army of the Doomstar echoes the aesthetics of Metalocalypse the series, yet it delves into a deeper, darker realm. The once vibrant humor takes a backseat, resulting in a densely plotted narrative that occasionally leaves you yearning for the laughs of old. The absence of levity is a glaring void, reminding us of the show’s evolution.

Viewers are plunged into a world that assumes familiarity with past events, leaving me wishing I’d revisited the last few episodes. Despite this challenge, the intricate storytelling rewards dedicated fans with a labyrinth of interconnected plots and characters. The emotional undertones, often cloaked in satire, manage to resonate.

The movie is still metal as hell, pulsating with an even stronger energy than the series. However, the music now guides the story down a more somber, mysterious path, amplifying the show’s satirically eerie atmosphere.

There are a ton of great voices in the film; Jon Hamm, Mark Hamill, Laraine Newman, Malcolm McDowell, and even musicians like Scott Ian from Anthrax, Kirk Hammett from Metallica, King Diamond, and Thundercat. And of course, some great thrash songs from Metalocalypse creator Brendon Small, who is a face-melting guitarist in his own right.

Somewhat surprisingly, Army of the Doomstar is a visual masterpiece, luring audiences into an unsettling yet captivating world. It straddles the line between the absurd and the profound, crafting moments that hold unexpected emotional weight.

Though the laughter is comparably scarce, there are still some laughs, and the transformation into a more serious narrative elevates the series to some degree. It no longer relies on comedy, instead embracing its weirdness to deliver a unique, visually stunning experience. Army of the Doomstar becomes a testament to reinvention, offering a tantalizing blend of darkness and cinematic splendor.