Lords of Chaos

In 1987, a young guitarist known as Euronymous establishes the groundbreaking black metal band Mayhem in Norway. He teams up with bassist Necrobutcher and drummer Manheim, marking the beginning of a significant movement in the music scene.

Following Manheim's departure, Mayhem recruits a new drummer named Hellhammer. This lineup change brings fresh energy and influences to their music, setting the stage for their distinctive sound.

The band recruits a Swedish vocalist named Dead, whose erratic behavior becomes central to the band's notorious image. His performances are shocking and violent, as he engages in self-harm and provocative acts against the audience.

In a devastating turn of events, Dead takes his own life in a fit of despair, using Euronymous' shotgun. His death becomes a pivotal moment in the band's history and significantly impacts the black metal scene.

Instead of notifying the authorities, Euronymous poses and photographs Dead's body, creating morbid necklaces from pieces of his skull. This callous behavior leads to Necrobutcher walking away from the band in disgust.

Euronymous opens his own black metal label and a record store named Helvete, which quickly becomes a hangout spot for fans and musicians. Notable figures like Fenriz and Faust regularly visit, fostering a close-knit community.

The gathering at Helvete leads to the creation of the infamous 'Black Circle,' consisting of notable black metal musicians. This group gains notoriety for their extreme actions and rebellious attitudes.

Tensions escalated when Varg Vikernes sets fire to a local church in rebellion against Euronymous. This act of defiance marks the beginning of a series of arsons that shock the Norwegian community.

Euronymous enlists Varg as Mayhem's bassist, alongside other musicians, to work on their first album, De Mysteriis Dom Sathanas. This album would become a defining moment for the black metal genre.

As tensions reach a boiling point, Varg stabs Euronymous during a meeting supposedly to sign a contract. The attack is brutal, with Varg continuing even as Euronymous pleads for mercy, ultimately leading to Euronymous' death.

Following the murder, Varg is arrested and charged not only with Euronymous' murder but also with participating in the church burnings. He receives a maximum sentence of 21 years in prison, bringing a dramatic end to the violence surrounding the black metal scene.

In a poignant voice-over, Euronymous reflects on his life and urges the audience not to mourn for him. He emphasizes the achievements of his career, solidifying his legacy within the black metal genre.