Review of Anvil! The Story of Anvil (2008) by Jennifer A — 28 Sep 2009

When set to brass tacks, Anvil was a fairly popular band in the 80s. Anvil is from Toronto and is fucking hilarious. Anvil has self-released albums for twenty years. Their drummer is one of the first influential drummers in metal, but is a pushover. Their singer/guitarist is a well-meaning individual with terrible business sense. Both original members have painfully boring and dead-end day jobs. They need to make music together to survive, never truly realizing that their flaws as middle-aged men will always prevent them from resurrecting their careers. It's a beautiful testament to friendship and music, and the day-to-day existence of those who were born unlucky.

I dare you to not shed a tear when Lips tells Robb that the only reason he ever gets upset at him is because he loves him. I defy you to not cringe in embarrassment when they play their new album for an A&R executive who wouldn't give the band the light of day if a camera wasn't there. You'll laugh, you'll cry, and you'll want these talented, funny, personable, genuine, and passionate old men to be successful once more. I can say without hesitation that this is one of the most moving documentaries I've ever seen. This is an awards season slamdunk. ANVIL FTW.