Review of Anvil! The Story of Anvil (2008) by Sean C — 07 May 2010

I've gotta say I really, really didnt think I'd enjoy this documentary about Anvil, the band that should have been massive but may never be. It was superb and like watching This Is Spinal Tap but only for real.

Steve 'Lips' Kudlow and Robb Reiner (no not that one, this one has two B's in his name -another funny coincidence with Spinal Tap, alongside the band visiting Stonehenge and a speaker getting turned up to 11 at one point) were boyhood friends who agreed to rock together forever and they have for 30 yrs.

They played and toured with all the massive 80's bands from back in the day from Bon Jovi, The Scorpions, Whitesnake, etc but Anvil have just never made it. Despite massive praise and credit from big producers and massive metal rocks stars from the past and present (namely Slash and Lars Ulrich from Metallica) - Anvil had it all, stage presence, the songs and the ability but just missed that something, that little spark to capture an audience and make them go and buy their records.

This film catches Lips and Robb in their 50's still trying to make a go of it and what characters they are! I've never seen such a moving, affectionate and enthusiastic documentary ever. You really feel for the guys situation.

It's full of laughs, heart breaks and real life moments that is really great viewing. I'm not a fan of metal music by a long way but this is a highly recommended stuff that is something different to sit and enjoy and you won't regret it, believe me.

Robb and Steve really are great company and their outlook on life and outright refusal to be downbeat is awe inspiring.