Live the fantasy that others only dream about.

Rating: 7/10 (13 August 2002)

This movie is a lot better than you imagine. Chris Cole is the lead singer of a tribute band that is swept off his feet when he is asked to join the real group and then drowns in the world of sex, drugs and heavy metal. Mark Wahlberg plays the part of Cole and eases into the role excellently probably due to his own musical background. Jennifer Aniston plays Emily, Cole's love interest and manager. She can only stand so much of watching Cole sink lower and deeper into the decadent world associated with the band. Emily leaves to start a new life in Seattle and later Cole comes to his senses when he realizes that the Steel Dragon does not want his input more than his sexually willing body and voice to sustain the group. Cole hands over the mic to an eager wannabe and trades in his heavy metal wardrobe for jeans and sweaters and singing his own songs in front of half-filled coffee houses in Seattle.
Like I said, Wahlberg is excellent in the role. I've never been an Aniston fan, but she really is impressive in this movie. Timothy Spall is moderately funny in the role as the Steel Dragon's road manager. Lending their individual talents to make the film more believable are: Jason Bonham, Timothy Olyphant, Brian Van Ark, Jeff Pilson, Jason Flemyng and Dominic West.
Besides the music of Steel Dragon and their tribute band Blood Pollution there is original music from the likes of Kiss, Ted Nugent, Bon Jovi, Everclear and Motley Crue.
Note: This story is reportedly roughly based on the story of Judas Priest's Tim "Ripper" Owens.