Richard Hugh Blackmore’s Story Hits the Screen as Netflix Finally Releases the Highly Anticipated Biopic 🎥
Rock fans, rejoice — the long-awaited biopic of legendary guitarist Richard Hugh Blackmore, founding member of Deep Purple and Rainbow, has officially premiered on Netflix, and it’s already being hailed as a must-watch masterpiece.
Titled “Man in Black: The Ritchie Blackmore Story”, the film dives deep into the life, legacy, and mystique of one of rock’s most enigmatic and innovative guitarists. From his early classical training and session work in the ‘60s to the explosive success of Deep Purple’s “Smoke on the Water” and his reinvention with Rainbow, the biopic captures Blackmore’s genius, struggles, and uncompromising artistry.
🎥 Directed by Oscar-nominated filmmaker Sam Taylor-Johnson, the film features never-before-seen archival footage, dramatized performances, and exclusive interviews with former bandmates, producers, and Blackmore himself. Actor Ben Barnes (known for Shadow and Bone and The Punisher) portrays the fiery, virtuosic guitarist with uncanny precision.
The film doesn’t shy away from Blackmore’s complex reputation — showcasing moments of brilliance, backstage tension, and his eventual shift toward Renaissance-inspired music with Blackmore’s Night. At its heart, however, is a story about passion, rebellion, and the eternal pursuit of musical perfection.
Critics are already praising the film for its balance of gritty realism and musical awe. Rolling Stone calls it “an electrifying portrait of a man who never settled, never followed, and always played louder.”
🎸 Whether you’re a lifelong fan or discovering Blackmore for the first time, this biopic is a thrilling ride through the evolution of hard rock and heavy metal.
👇 Stream “Man in Black” now on Netflix — and witness the legend behind the riffs.