In “Metallica: Some Kind of Monster” the filmmakers use a great array of clips in addition to recording intimate conversations and capturing the performers in their tension-ridden close-up moments. The music is always there, of course, as the group rehearses and at one point seeks a new bass guitarist. Most fascinating is the group’s hiring of a psychiatrist to guide the sorting out of relationships so there can be a reasonable degree of peace and harmony. There’s humor in the situation, as band members see the psychiatrist as one who begins to consider himself part of the ensemble.

A welcomingly funny sequence involves an effort to make a commercial upon which the musicians frown, which leads to creating a funny new number. The overall portrait that emerges is complex. It also reveals pretentiousness in honing the music and talking about it as if great works were being produced. Perhaps that won’t seem odd to heavy metal enthusiasts. But to one who finds the loud, hostile, in-your-face performances more ear-splitting than soul-tingling, all the talk about craft seems somewhat far-fetched. But these are very serious performers at heart, and the filmmakers succeed in capturing the gamut of their work, their insecurities and their commitment.