Bleecker Street’s Crosswalk Acquires ‘Long Live Def Leppard’ Doc

Bleecker Street's Crosswalk has secured North American distribution rights for the first-ever authorized documentary about the iconic British rock band Def Leppard, the company announced on Friday. Titled "Long Live Def Leppard," the feature-length film offers an all-access look at the band's incredible journey from their origins in the United Kingdom to their ongoing global fan base.

Directed by Jeff Feuerzeig ("The Devil and Daniel Johnston"), the documentary was produced by Alice Rhodes, Sam Bridger, Nicholas Ferrall, Jeanne Elfant Festa, Danny Gabai, Brian T. Nugent, and Brian T. Nugent.

Released in theaters early next year, the film has already achieved impressive milestones, with over 110 million albums sold worldwide, two Diamond Awards in the U.S., and an induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. Its narrative covers pivotal moments in the band's history, including drummer Rick Allen's life-altering accident and the tragic loss of lead guitarist Steve Clark, which set the stage for Def Leppard's extraordinary resilience and enduring success.

Featuring a stellar cast of producers including Nigel Sinclair, Cassidy Hartmann, Stuart Goldstein, Rosie Taylor, Andrew Trapani, Emmerson G. Farrell, David Sze, David B. Kirk, Bruce Resnikoff, Adam Barker, Lawrence Mestel, Natalia Nastaskin, Robert Dippold, Todd Lieberman, Brian Monaco, and Mike Kobayashi, the film also boasts executive production by Nigel Sinclair and Cassidy Hartmann, Stuart Goldstein, and Rosie Taylor. Amy Rattray serves as line producer for the project.

Director Jeff Feuerzeig shared his initial encounter with Def Leppard, recounting the summer of '81 when he first saw the band open for Ozzy Osbourne in Asbury Park. He described the band's raw talent and determination, saying, "These young lads from working-class Sheffield were punching far above their weight and playing for keeps." The director emphasized that "Long Live Def Leppard" is far from a conventional rock 'n' roll story, highlighting its unique blend of humor, heart, and perseverance.

Bleecker Street CEO Kent Sanderson expressed excitement about the film, stating that fans of all ages will be captivated by its compelling narrative and powerful visuals. "Def Leppard is a once in a lifetime rock band, whose story and live performances demand to be seen and heard on the big screen," he added. "Longtime fans and those just being introduced to the group are going to be blown away by this high energy, compelling, and ultimately moving look into this legendary band."

With its impressive roster of talent and the band's storied legacy, "Long Live Def Leppard" promises to be a must-see event, appealing to both die-hard fans and newcomers to the world of Def Leppard.