Last Days Here (Don Argott/Demian Fenton, 2011, USA)

Last Days Here tells the story of Bobby Liebling, the musical force behind the band Pentagram. Over the years, Pentagram developed an almost mythical reputation. Poised to be America’s answer to Black Sabbath, the band began in the 1970s and had several near brushes with commercial success - including a failed session with Blue Oyster Cult’s producer, and a failed audition for Kiss. Liebling’s drug and behavioral issues prevented the band from ever reaching its full potential, and despite a consistent recording and touring output, the band fell into relative obscurity until the early 2000s, when the newfound resurgence of doom metal saw the re-release of Pentagram’s early 70s material, introducing them to a new legion of fans.

Most viewers will not find Liebling a particularly sympathetic protagonist, as he tends to use and abuse everyone around him, but against all odds, we end up rooting for his ultimate recovery and redemption. It seems to have worked for him, as Pentagram is still touring and releasing albums in 2025. Along with Liebling, the film tells the story of his producer, a young man who sees Pentagram as his final chance to make a name for himself in the music industry.

Those who think their life is not going well would be advised to watch Last Days Here for some inspiration. The film is relentlessly entertaining, mostly due to Liebling’s unhinged behavior. It helps that Pentagram’s music is actually good, and it is conceivable that they could have been a major player in rock music had circumstances been different. For fans of metal, this is a must-watch. For fans of music in general, it is also an interesting examination of fate and the desire to keep a dream alive against all odds. Despite its unsympathetic protagonist, the film is inspirational.

8/10