Netflix has just unveiled the trailer for an eagerly anticipated documentary on the legendary Brazilian metal band, Sepultura. The film promises to delve deep into the band’s rise to international fame, their musical evolution, and the complex dynamics within the group. The documentary, titled Sepultura: Roots of Metal, highlights the band’s groundbreaking contributions to the metal scene, especially their iconic albums Chaos A.D. and Roots.
In the trailer, intense footage of the band’s early performances is juxtaposed with candid interviews and behind-the-scenes moments, hinting at the struggles that defined their journey. However, the most intriguing aspect of the film’s release is the confirmation that Netflix has had ongoing conversations with the band regarding how to portray the longstanding tensions, specifically between the founding members Max and Igor Cavalera and the remaining members of the band.
One of the most contentious topics that has loomed over Sepultura’s legacy is the departure of Max Cavalera in 1996, a departure that divided fans and left a lasting scar on the band’s history. In the documentary, it has been revealed that Netflix and the filmmakers have wrestled with whether Max Cavalera’s pivotal role in the band would be acknowledged fully or whether it would be “erased” in the narrative.
The decision comes after months of discussions with the current band members—Andreas Kisser, Paulo Jr., and Eloy Casagrande—who have largely kept their perspectives on the Cavalera era quiet for years. However, as the documentary aims to be an honest exploration of the band’s turbulent past, there is no shortage of sensitive subject matter.
According to insiders, the filmmakers were careful not to erase the impact Max had on the band, particularly during the formation of Sepultura and their rise to prominence in the metal world. Still, the documentary doesn’t shy away from the rift that would forever change the course of their trajectory. Some fans worry that the documentary may downplay Max’s influence to focus more on the band’s more recent accomplishments, especially considering that many of the band’s newer records have focused heavily on their musical growth and re-establishing their own identity.
In the trailer, there is a striking scene where the current members reflect on the band’s evolution, acknowledging the “difficult conversations” that have occurred over the years. It seems the documentary will explore the emotional and creative rift that Max and Igor’s departure caused, but also show the band’s resilience and eventual reconciliation with their legacy. There are even hints at the potential return of Max Cavalera, though it remains unclear whether this will happen during the film’s production or if the tension will simply be a backdrop to the overarching narrative.
The announcement of the documentary has drawn both excitement and concern from long-time fans. Some believe that the film could serve as a path toward healing, bringing the brothers back into the fold in some capacity. Others are wary of seeing the band’s contentious past being manipulated for drama’s sake, especially if it overlooks their original lineup’s contributions to metal.
At the heart of Sepultura: Roots of Metal is the story of a band that transcended their roots in Brazil and helped shape the global landscape of heavy music. As the documentary gears up for release, it is clear that its success will depend not just on capturing the explosive energy of Sepultura’s music, but also on how it handles the delicate balance of celebrating the band’s past while honoring the complex relationships that have defined their legacy.
The trailer concludes with an unforgettable line from Max Cavalera himself: “Sepultura was my soul, but I had to leave to find my own voice again. What happened after… that’s another story.” As the documentary inches closer to release, fans will finally get to hear that story told—one that has been decades in the making.
