Iron Maiden: Burning Ambition – New Official Documentary

26 February 2026 rocknews

Universal Pictures International has officially announced IRON MAIDEN: BURNING AMBITION, the long-awaited feature-length documentary celebrating one of the most iconic journeys in rock history.

The film will be released in cinemas worldwide from Thursday 7 May 2026, with tickets going on general sale Tuesday 18 March 2026 at www.ironmaidenfilm.com.

Directed by Malcolm Venville (Churchill at War) and produced by Dominic Freeman (Spirits in the Forest – A Depeche Mode Film), the documentary offers unprecedented access to Iron Maiden’s official archives and charts the band’s remarkable five-decade story from their formation in East London in 1975 to their status as one of the world’s biggest and most influential rock bands.

Alongside in-depth interviews with the current line-up — Steve Harris, Dave Murray, Adrian Smith, Bruce Dickinson, Nicko McBrain and Janick Gers — plus longtime manager Rod Smallwood, the film features heartfelt reflections from high-profile fans including Oscar-winning actor Javier Bardem, Metallica drummer Lars Ulrich, and Public Enemy’s Chuck D.

A 50-Year Celebration of Iron Maiden

The documentary arrives at the perfect time as Iron Maiden celebrate their 50th anniversary with the ongoing Run For Your Lives world tour and a series of special 2026 events, including the one-off EddFest at historic Knebworth Park on July 11.

With 17 studio albums, over 100 million records sold, almost 2,500 live shows across 64 countries, and a loyal global army of fans known as the “Maiden Family”, Iron Maiden remain one of the most enduring and successful forces in rock music.

Key Facts & Highlights

Release Date: Thursday 7 May 2026 (worldwide cinemas)
Tickets On Sale: Tuesday 18 March 2026 via www.ironmaidenfilm.com
Director: Malcolm Venville
Producer: Dominic Freeman
Featuring: Steve Harris, Dave Murray, Adrian Smith, Bruce Dickinson, Nicko McBrain, Janick Gers, Rod Smallwood, Javier Bardem, Lars Ulrich, Chuck D

The newly revealed key art, created by artist Albert “Akirant” Quirantes, gives the first official look at the documentary.

FAQs About Iron Maiden: Burning Ambition Documentary

When is Iron Maiden: Burning Ambition released in cinemas?

Thursday 7 May 2026 worldwide.

When do tickets go on sale?

Tuesday 18 March 2026 at 10am local time via www.ironmaidenfilm.com.

What will the documentary cover?

Five decades of Iron Maiden’s history, from their East London beginnings in 1975 to global superstardom, with never-before-seen archive footage and new interviews.

Who is featured in the film?

The full current band, manager Rod Smallwood, plus special guests Javier Bardem, Lars Ulrich and Chuck D.

Is this connected to the 2026 Run For Your Lives tour?

Yes – the film is part of Iron Maiden’s 50th anniversary celebrations alongside the world tour and EddFest at Knebworth.

This is the definitive cinematic celebration of Iron Maiden’s incredible legacy. Mark your calendars for March 18 and get ready to experience 50 years of heavy metal history on the big screen.

IRON MAIDEN: BURNING AMBITION – in cinemas from May 7 2026. Tickets on sale March 18 at www.ironmaidenfilm.com

Up the Irons! 🤘