Director: Sacha Gervasi
Producer: Rebecca Yeldham
MPAA Rating: NR
Running time: 90 min

My parents always said that if I had passion, worked hard and made sacrifices I could do anything I wanted to. The so-called “American Dream” is fairly universal and perhaps it is that universality that has seen the saying and belief proliferate beyond America’s borders to enter the subconscious of the human race. For some, the dreams are small but for others, they are grandiose: become stars. But working hard doesn’t always translate into success and for many, a large part of success is also dependent on luck. Being at the right place, at the right time, knowing the right people and in the case of musicians, being heard.

MTV and VH1 only show the stories of the successful, the ones that made it. But what about the rest? In 2004 director Ondi Timoner followed two promising American rock bands, The Brian Jonestown Massacre and The Dandy Warhols, for her excellent documentary DiG!. One became successful (the Warhols) and the other not so much (Jonestown). It was interesting to see the derailment of The Brian Jonestown Massacre and from early on it was clearly apparent why that band would never hit the big time but watching Anvil! The Story of Anvil, the derailment isn’t apparent. This isn’t even a derailment; it’s simply a case of talented guys who never caught a lucky break.

Directed by Sacha Gervasi, former band roadie and long-time fan, the documentary tells the heartbreaking story of Toronto metal demi-gods Anvil. The band, which originally formed in the late 70’s, has released thirteen albums and after thirty years of hard work, remain largely unknown. How did this happen to a band that in 1984 played the Super Rock Festival in Tokyo with the likes of then up-and-comers Bon Jovi, Whitesnake and Scorpions (all of whom went on to huge success)?

That’s not to say that because they’ve never sold millions, they’re not well recognized. The film opens with Slash, Lemmy and Lars all commenting on the influence Anvil had on early metal and how good they are but they never caught the break that the others did and the comrades that came along were happy to borrow, steal and take credit rather than help out the band. That leaves Anvil in the dust, still working full-time jobs, playing gigs to a few hundred (on the best of days) and touring in conditions you’d expect for kids trying to break into the business, not seasoned veterans.

Though the film is wrapped in the trappings of an underdog story (which it clearly is) it’s also a story of friendship. Band members Steve “Lips” Kudlow and Robb Reiner who formed the band while still in their teens and have been together through the ups and downs, are inseparable. Watching these guys interact is like watching brothers at their best and worst. Their passion and commitment to each other and the band is undeniable and watching them continue to struggle is all the more difficult because Gervasi opens the door on their personal lives. Behind the hair, leather and heavy music, these are two of the nicest, most considerate people you’re likely to meet and Gervasi makes you feel like you’ve met these guys and learned their deepest, darkest secrets. You’re vested in their story from the beginning and as it unfolds, it’s difficult not to get emotional.

The film is beautifully edited and though at times it feels contrived and manipulative, it’s clear from Lips and Robb, who were on hand at the Vancouver screening for a Q&A (rock on!), that it was all simply a matter of coincidence. That knowledge makes the closing few minutes of the film in which the band returns to Tokyo for the first time in 20 years, more than just a little nail biting – it’s down right anxiety attack inducing.

Inspiration comes from a lot of places and even those who can’t appreciate the music will appreciate that Anvil is inspirational. To devote yourself so thoroughly to your dreams is a rare thing but these guys have and continue to do it. Anvil! The Story of Anvil is invigorating, inspiring and an unexpectedly raw and emotional trip; one well worth taking.

Links:
IMDb profile
Official Site
Flixster Profile for Anvil! The Story of Anvil