Review of Anvil! The Story of Anvil (2008) by Ali B — 19 Mar 2010

I've seen many rock documentaries in my time, but never one quite like this. There isn't much music in it, but there is plenty of observation and intimacy. Sacha Gervasi crafts the film beautifully, making it funny, touching, sad, and triumphant.

Its about its subjects first, and the music industry second. There is no doubt Gervasi has put this together with a great deal of love, and in some ways it plays out like a real life version of "Spinal Tap".

We see its heroes struggle, fail, and ultimately prosper on their own terms. Moving scenes abound throughout the film. This is a film about following your dreams at any cost. It is also a testament and a tribute to bands that are never signed, that play in dive bars, small college campuses, or any venue they can get, who are driven by the love of what they do, and the fans who care about them.

Gervasi knows respect is due. Outstanding.