Anvil! The Story of Anvil

Anvil! The Story of Anvil. It is a 2008 documentary film directed by Sacha Gervasi that chronicles the decades-long career of the Canadian heavy metal band Anvil (band). The film focuses on founding members Steve "Lips" Kudlow and Robb Reiner as they persevere through obscurity and hardship while pursuing musical success. It premiered at the 2008 Sundance Film Festival and was later distributed by VH1 and Abramorama, earning critical acclaim for its heartfelt portrayal of dedication and friendship.

Background and formation

The band Anvil (band) was formed in Toronto in 1978 by high school friends Steve "Lips" Kudlow and Robb Reiner. Inspired by the burgeoning heavy metal scene and acts like Led Zeppelin and Black Sabbath, the group quickly developed a high-energy sound. They released their influential debut album, *Hard 'n' Heavy*, in 1981 on Attic Records, followed by the seminal *Metal on Metal* in 1982. During this period, Anvil toured with major acts like Scorpions (band) and Bon Jovi, gaining a cult following in the United States and Europe. Their early work earned them respect from peers, including members of Slayer and Metallica, who cited them as an influence.

Career and initial struggles

Despite early momentum, Anvil (band) failed to achieve mainstream commercial success throughout the 1980s and 1990s. A disastrous European tour in 1984, poorly managed by their then-label Metal Blade Records, marked the beginning of prolonged struggles. The band faced constant financial difficulties, leading members to take day jobs; Steve "Lips" Kudlow worked delivering meals for Children's Choice School Catering while Robb Reiner took construction jobs. They continued to self-finance and release albums on small labels like Massacre Records and Hypnotic Records, but their efforts garnered little attention from major media outlets like Rolling Stone or MTV. By the early 2000s, they were largely forgotten outside a dedicated fanbase in Japan and Germany.

Documentary production and release

The documentary was conceived by Sacha Gervasi, a former roadie for Anvil (band) who became a successful screenwriter for films like The Terminal (film). Gervasi reconnected with the band in 2005 and began filming their attempt to record a thirteenth album, *This Is Thirteen*, and embark on another European tour. The production captured poignant moments, including a tense recording session with producer Chris Tsangarides and a humiliating performance at the Monsters of Transylvania festival. After its premiere at the 2008 Sundance Film Festival, the film was acquired for distribution. It saw a theatrical release in North America and the United Kingdom, with marketing support from VH1 and a soundtrack released by The End Records.

Impact and legacy

Upon release, the film received widespread critical praise from publications like The New York Times and The Guardian, with many comparing its emotional resonance to The Wrestler (film). It won the Independent Spirit Award for Best Documentary and was nominated for a Grammy Award for Best Music Film. The documentary is credited with revitalizing the career of Anvil (band), introducing them to a new global audience. It also influenced later music documentaries, such as Metallica: Some Kind of Monster, by highlighting the personal dynamics behind the music. The film's themes of unwavering perseverance and artistic integrity have made it a cult classic, frequently discussed in contexts like South by Southwest panels.

Post-documentary career

Following the documentary's success, Anvil (band) experienced a significant career resurgence. They performed on major television programs like The Tonight Show with Conan O'Brien and at prestigious festivals including Download Festival and Hellfest. They secured a new recording contract with Steamhammer Records, releasing well-received albums like *Juggernaut of Justice* and *Pounding the Pavement*. The band embarked on successful world tours, playing to sold-out crowds from Los Angeles to Tokyo. In 2014, they published an autobiography, *Anvil: The Story of Anvil*, co-written with Kier-La Janisse. Members Steve "Lips" Kudlow and Robb Reiner have since been celebrated as enduring icons of the heavy metal music genre.

Category:2008 films Category:Canadian documentary films Category:Heavy metal documentaries