ANVIL! THE STORY OF ANVIL

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Director: Sacha Gervasi
Category: Documentary, musical
Rated: Not rated
Running time: 1 hr 30 mins

Terri says:

My first impression of Anvil! was the film was a big joke and not a documentary (Spinal Tap part two?). I realized a few minutes in these musicians were not acting and they were being themselves. After this realization, my attitude went from light-hearted to involving, caring and serious. What changed my mind so drastically was the purgatory rather than hell this band that's been together for over 20 years would stop at nothing to stay together.

Anvil went through the ringer on their tour through Europe with new manager/longtime fan Tiziana Arrigoni. Though she means well, she manages horribly to the point where the band did not make a penny for their performances even though they are known as the greatest Canadian metal band. The audience's hearts break when lead singer Steve "Lips" Kudlow pours his heart out to friend/Anvil's drummer Robb Reiner, who could pass easily for his brother. It's strange to see so much love and passion come from members of a metal band.

If you've seen Anvil! be referred to as a real-life Spinal Tap, here's why: a visit to Stonehenge (like Spinal Tap's classic song), disputes with management, mediocre success and fights between the Lips and Robb are frequent (like Nigel and David). From those references, you do have a giggle inside your head (especially when they visit Stonehenge). Besides that, Anvil! is very much separated from the spoof metal band and does deserve to be taken seriously.

Overall, this film is recommended for all interested. The language is rough at times and there are light illegal substance references and usage, so I would not recommend this for audience members under the age of 17. Don’t see this movie if you’re expecting to see another Spinal Tap movie. This is a movie story with an unpredictable setting, which makes it even greater of a film.

VERDICT: 4.0