Anvil is a Canadian heavy metal band formed in 1982 by Steve “Lips” Kudlow (vocals, guitar) and Robb Reiner (drums) in Toronto, Canada. They’ve released nineteen studio albums to date and have shown no signs of slowing down. The band has traveled the world over and influenced countless musicians, including heavy hitters like Metallica and Anthrax.
In 2008, filmmaker Sacha Gervasi released a documentary titled Anvil! The Story of Anvil showcasing the band, which was met with critical acclaim. The movie helped introduce Anvil to a new generation of fans, and now MVD Visual is bringing a brand new special edition on Blu-ray, and it’s packed to the gills.
Anvil! The Story of Anvil tells the story of the two long-time friends who formed a band that no one would have expected to be active for over forty years, never letting those amps fall silent. Through interviews with the band and those who know them best, the trials and tribulations of one of metal’s hardest-working bands become a legendary story. They’ve often been compared to the fictional band Spinal Tap, but despite any setbacks they’ve ever encountered, Anvil still marches forward, doing the only thing they know how — bringing the metal.
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After fifteen years, Anvil! The Story of Anvil still hits every note. It’s hysterically funny and tugs at the heartstrings in unexpected ways. It’s a bit of an underdog story where you constantly find yourself rooting for them to succeed. It hits much like the 2015 documentary I Am Thor hits. That film follows fellow Canadian rocker Jon-Mikl Thor as he attempts to mount a comeback. There are quite a few parallels between the two films, but they offer unique journeys. There’s plenty of music and performance footage with just enough insight to learn what makes these two guys tick and the power of their friendship.
The original release offered up a decent amount of special features, but the new 2-disc Ultimate Edition delivers anything you could possibly need. It’s fully remastered with enhanced color and remixed in 5.1 surround audio. There’s a newly recorded audio commentary from the director, the original 2008 commentary with the band and director, commentary with the director and several crew members, deleted scenes, Q&A moderated by Steve-o, another Q&A with the director, band, and Peter Dinklage, trailers, podcast interviews, and loads more.
It’s tough not to love this film and everything it offers. Whether you’re a fan of the band or even heavy metal, it doesn’t matter. You’ll find yourself endeared and cheering for these guys who, with 100% conviction, want to slay on the stage, and they do. Be sure to check out Anvil! The Story of Anvil as soon as you can. Don’t forget to check your local rock venues because there’s an excellent chance you’ll also find them on tour.
