Rob Halford: From Metal God to Movie God

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By IFQ Critic Todd Konrad

IFQ recently spoke with heavy metal legend Rob Halford as he was in the midst of yet another successful world tour with the classic metal group Judas Priest. Rather than focusing on Halford’s work in that arena, IFQ took the opportunity to discuss his new film, Halford Live at Rock in Rio III, which details the forging of his blistering solo group Halford and their amazing live performance at the world-famous Rock in Rio music festival. Brimming with passion and focus, Halford Live at Rock in Rio III chronicles the journey of a metal icon undertaking a creative resurrection before our very eyes.

IFQ: You’re releasing a new film, Halford Live at Rock in Rio III. How would you describe it in a nutshell for both fans and first-time viewers, and what was the impetus behind its creation?

Rob Halford: Halford Resurrection World Tour – Live at Rock in Rio III provides our fans an exciting look back into a memorable night with an explosive new Heavy Metal band, Halford.  The show is presented with personal observations from the band, and brings insight into how this magical Heavy Metal outfit came into each others lives and created powerful music together.

IFQ: Over the course of filming, what was it like having nearly every moment of your life being recorded and in essence putting your private moments and thoughts on record for anyone interested to be able to view?

RH: Small cameras, which you tend to forget about, bring an honest look at what a band encounters.  For myself, the music is all that really matters; but for everyone watching, personal expressions are intriguing and reveal some of what makes us tick.

IFQ: Is there anything that you said or did that was captured on camera and may have had second thoughts about letting others see? If so, what were you afraid would be revealed?

RH: I always try and speak from the heart; of course, being honest is important as a public figure. I always reserve the right to say something stupid though.

IFQ: If you had to guess, putting yourself in a regular fan’s shoes, what do you think someone so used to your public persona would learn about you in your private, everyday life that perhaps may be surprising or at the very least, unexpected?

RH: For those that do not know me, I guess off stage I am a quiet reserved kind of guy that cannot stand the fuss about who I am and what I do.

IFQ: Regarding the movie world, you had an interesting cameo as a sex store clerk in the movie Spun. Could you briefly discuss that experience working on the big screen in such an unconventional role?

RH: Events occur out-the-blue.  That was the case with Spun.  Jonas (Akerlund) contacted me regarding the role.  I still have no idea why me.  It was a fun day, and a real pleasure to work with Mickey (Rourke) and Jason (Schwartzman).  My scenes were shot on location, and Jonas had a fast reactionary process in getting what he needed from the talent.

IFQ: To lighten things up but I’m curious to know, what kinds of films do you personally enjoy watching and given your public persona, are there any choices that would perhaps surprise your legions of fans out there?

RH: Like most, I have broad taste in films.  I can easily go from blockbusters to indies, dramas to comedies, etc. Each genre has an appeal.

IFQ: Ultimately, looking back on the experience of making this film as it followed your life and knowing what the cameras captured, what do you hope is communicated, to those watching, about yourself and the experiences you went through, etc.?

RH:  Whenever I look at myself in film I feel uncomfortable.  I have no idea why.  I think because when you are in the zone you are displaying a part of yourself that is from the soul.  So to look at myself from a non-performer’s perspective is strange.