Review of Anvil! The Story of Anvil (2008) by Chris J — 30 Aug 2010

Anvil follows two original members of the once-popular metal band, who are now in their fifties. Both Steve "Lips" Kudlow and Robb Reiner (no, not that Rob Reiner) are fascinating, with their never-die attitude, life-long friendship, and constant brotherly quarrels.

Back in the 80s, when their brand of metal was dominating the airwaves, they were primed for success, sharing the stage with giants like Bon Jovi, Scorpions, Motley Crue, etc. Unfortunately, and perhaps, inexplicably, they never got their break; and, astonishingly, they have been trying to make it ever since -- at the cost of financial instability and frequent absences from home.

The film succeeds because both Kudlow and Reiner are extremely funny and entertaining, but beyond entertainment it's easy to have a profound respect for these crusty rockers and it's even easier to feel sorry for them.

Perhaps the most touching aspects of Anvil are the interviews with spouses, siblings and parents, as they demonstrate the degree of tolerance required to stick with middle-aged men still pursuing a 16-year-old's ultimate rock star fantasy.

The amount of unwavering support these people have for the band, even though their dream, by all accounts and measures, is virtually unattainable, is truly heart-warming. Well-shot and edited, Anvil is an underdog saga even non-metalheads will root for.

It effectively tows that fine line between chuckling at its protagonists' somewhat absurd situation and celebrating their sheer unwillingness to give up. It's heartbreaking at times to see these guys struggle for so long with little or no day off, but that's also what is so endearing about the film.

These guys want nothing more than to get their music to a large amount of people, and their unbridled passion is both inspiring and touching. Anvil has a lot of heart and will not disappoint.