Iron Maiden’s ‘Burning Ambition’ Documentary to Hit Cinemas Worldwide

A new documentary chronicling the five-decade career of Iron Maiden, titled Burning Ambition, is set for a global cinematic release on May 7, 2026. Tickets will be available for purchase starting March 18, 2026.

A Deep Dive into the Band’s History

Directed by Malcolm Venville, Burning Ambition offers an intimate glance at Iron Maiden’s journey, featuring interviews with band members Steve Harris, Dave Murray, Adrian Smith, Bruce Dickinson, Nicko McBrain, and Janick Gers, as well as their co-manager Rod Smallwood. The documentary also includes contributions from prominent fans, including actor Javier Bardem, Metallica drummer Lars Ulrich, and Public Enemy frontman Chuck D .

Unprecedented Access to Archives

The film boasts “unprecedented access to official band archives,” promising a comprehensive exploration of the band’s history. According to an official synopsis, Burning Ambition charts the band’s evolution and their enduring connection with their global fanbase .

From East London Roots to Global Icon

Formed in East London in 1975, Iron Maiden released their debut album in 1980. Since then, they have released 17 studio albums, with their most recent being 2021’s Senjutsu, and have performed nearly 2,500 live shows across 64 countries .

Current Tour and Upcoming Events

The documentary’s release coincides with the band’s ongoing ‘Run For Your Lives’ world tour. Highlights include a performance at London Stadium and the unique EddFest celebration at Knebworth Park on July 11, 2026, featuring support from The Darkness, The Hu, Airbourne, and The Almighty . EddFest will also include the biggest Eddie’s Dive Bar ever, along with Maiden-themed food and merchandise.

Louder Than Life Festival Headline

Iron Maiden is also set to headline the first day of the Louder Than Life festival in Louisville, Kentucky, in September 2026, alongside My Chemical Romance, Tool, and Limp Bizkit .