Breaking a Monster

Malcolm, Jarad, and Alec are talented musicians on the brink of rock-god stardom. They have an agent, a record contract, and have performed in front of thousands of screaming fans. They're also in middle school. These boys are Unlocking the Truth, a Brooklyn metal band who gained a massive online following after posting videos of their street-corner performances. Breaking a Monster follows the band over the course of a yearlong industry roller coaster ride. These are thoughtful kids who often seem more down-to-earth than the giddy record execs. The film documents UTT's passion and excitement and witnesses absurd versions of music business tropes (like agent Alan Sacks putting his foot down when his guitarist demands more Coke...the kind in a red-and-white can). Through everything the band's spirit shines through. This is more than a portrait of three artists as young men; this is the future of rock. (Mill Valley Film Festival)