The new documentary Ozzy: No Escape From Now reveals the (extra)ordinary man behind the “Prince of Darkness” title that has long been associated with him.

“Where are the good old days?”

“They’re fucking gone.”

This comically bleak exchange between Ozzy and Sharon Osbourne occurs early in the documentary Ozzy: No Escape From Now, which premieres on Tuesday. The film chronicles roughly the last seven years of the Prince of Darkness’ life as he faced numerous health challenges that disrupted his performing career and left him in near-constant pain.

It also highlights many career milestones Ozzy achieved during this period — two well-received albums, a Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction, and the triumphant Back to the Beginning farewell concert — all supported by his musical associates and tirelessly devoted family.

‘Ozzy: No Escape From Now’ Balances Ozzy’s Fame With His Mortality

The triumph of No Escape From Now is its ability to balance Ozzy’s fame with his mortality.

It offers a devastating (and relatable) portrait of a family grappling with its patriarch’s deteriorating health while managing large-scale obligations that are both fulfilling and exhausting. It strips away the armor of the most famous heavy metal frontman in history, revealing not a madman but an ordinary (and extraordinary) man behind the Prince of Darkness.

No Escape From Now‘s staggering vulnerability also makes it a difficult watch, especially for Ozzy fans who deeply loved the singer and wished for his recovery.

The major challenges began in late 2018 when Ozzy contracted a staph infection while on tour. In February 2019, he suffered a severe fall that damaged his vertebrae, leading to a series of invasive and painful surgeries.

Tours were canceled, answers eluded the family, and Ozzy’s depression escalated to suicidal thoughts. Recovery felt like an endless struggle. Sharon faced dual challenges of managing what remained of Ozzy’s career while helping her husband physically and emotionally in his time of need.

“I know Ozzy’s a drama queen. He’ll do anything for a pain pill. But this was for real,” she states during one of his many unsuccessful surgeries.

Throughout Ozzy’s endless tribulations, Sharon remains a pillar of grace under pressure, a relentless supporter, a world-class promoter, and a calming voice of reason — and No Escape From Now should silence any critics who interpret her actions negatively. Everything she did was for Ozzy, and he makes it clear multiple times throughout the film that she’s the reason he made it as far as he did.

As Ozzy’s Health Declines, He Finds Comfort in Music

As his health declines, Ozzy finds comfort in a reliable source: music.

No Escape From Now documents his 2019 collaboration with Post Malone on “Take What You Want” and subsequent collaborations with producer Andrew Watt on 2020’s Ordinary Man and 2022’s Patient Number 9.

The singer lights up during studio sessions, excitedly workshopping lyrics and recording vocals from a chair as Watt, drummer Chad Smith, bassist Robert Trujillo, and other rockers jam and watch in admiration.

The Prince of Darkness’ 2024 Rock Hall induction receives significant attention and provides emotional drama. It’s heartbreaking to see him accept that he can’t perform at his own ceremony, but it’s thrilling and inspiring to watch him and Sharon assemble an all-star tribute band (including Smith, Trujillo, Billy Idol, Maynard James Keenan, Wolfgang Van Halen, and many more) to honor him.

When Ozzy unexpectedly lends his vocals to “Mama, I’m Coming Home” during rehearsals, the chills that fill the room become palpable.

READ MORE: Ozzy Osbourne Celebrated With All-Star Performance at Rock Hall

Ozzy’s Long Journey Back to the Beginning

The high from the Rock Hall unfortunately doesn’t sustain Ozzy physically, and the end of No Escape From Now covers the lead-up to July’s Back to the Beginning show.

It’s uncertain for a long time — less than three months before the performance, Sharon doubts Ozzy can make it — but he resolves to attend the gig and commits to physical therapy to prepare.

We now know that the show was a jubilant success that broke records, but the extensive behind-the-scenes footage and reflections from other Back to the Beginning performers further emphasize how momentous this occasion was.

Metallica’s James Hetfield reflects on what it means to conclude a decades-spanning career. “That’s got to be a really difficult position to be in and I will get there one day, I’m sure,” he shares. “And I don’t know how I’m going to handle that either. So again, Ozzy is paving the way for us still.”

READ MORE: 8 Things We Can’t Believe Happened at Back to the Beginning

Ozzy Gets Honest About His Mortality in ‘No Escape From Now’

The most impressive aspect of No Escape From Now is how openly Ozzy discusses his own mortality.

He candidly expresses his depression, anger, and disappointment regarding his inability to conclude his career satisfactorily. Yet he remains grateful for his remarkable life while maintaining the charming irreverence that endeared him to fans worldwide.

“It’s kind of befitting to the reign of Ozzy, isn’t it?” he marvels to Sharon on their way to the Rock Hall induction. “This conclusion. What a life; what a great career I had. How wonderful; what a great success story. From humble beginnings to a fucking desolate end.”