Review of Anvil! The Story of Anvil (2008) by Max M — 10 Oct 2009

While other bands in the heavy metal genre rose to prominence, such as Metallica, Anthrax, Megadeth, The Scorpions, Slayer, etc., Canadian head-bangers Anvil, whom many cite as an influence, fell by the wayside, however that hasn't stopped founding members, guitarist Steve 'Lips' Kudlow and drummer Robb Reiner from keeping the dream alive.

It's easy to invite comparisons between this film (an actual documentary about a real band) and This is Spinal Tap (a faux documentary about a fake band). After all, both films hit many of the same beats and have a very similar dramatic arc, but it is the fact that Anvil is a real band, with two hard-working guys that are so passionate and determined to keep playing no matter what the odds, that makes this picture really hit home. It really is a wildly entertaining and, believe it or not, very touching underdog story. Here's to Anvil to keep on rocking!