Iron Maiden guitarist Adrian Smith has shared his enthusiasm for the band’s upcoming feature documentary, Iron Maiden: Burning Ambition. The film will showcase previously hidden stories and invaluable early memories from the band’s legendary career.
In an exclusive interview, Smith expressed his initial hesitation about seeing himself on the big screen. He admitted, “When there’s something on a big screen about you, it can be a bit – you wanna hide behind the chairs.” However, he quickly emphasized his appreciation for the final product, stating that the documentary serves as “a good document of the band” that fans will genuinely enjoy.
Smith highlighted several compelling elements within the film. He particularly praised the inclusion of founder Steve Harris’s personal financial diaries from the 1980s. “I love the stuff in it, like Steve Harris’s diary, talking about getting just a couple of bucks to do a show and having to buy guitar strings and petrol and counting all the pennies. Stuff like that is priceless,” Smith explained. He also expressed nostalgia for the vintage photographs featured in the documentary. These images serve as windows into “a different life back in the ’80s when I was in the band, a different person.”
The guitarist’s comments underscore the documentary’s commitment to providing fans with an intimate look at Iron Maiden’s formative years. The film captures the band’s journey to becoming one of metal’s most enduring acts.
Iron Maiden: Burning Ambition will arrive in cinemas worldwide on May 7, 2026, according to the official Iron Maiden film website. This marks a significant moment for the band’s devoted fanbase. The feature-length documentary is distributed by Trafalgar Releasing and will have a limited theatrical run, making it a must-see event for metal enthusiasts. Tickets are set to go on sale on March 18, 2026—just two days away—giving fans the opportunity to secure their seats for this highly anticipated release.
The timing of the ticket sale demonstrates the filmmakers’ confidence in the documentary’s appeal. It reflects the band’s enduring popularity across generations of metal fans worldwide.
