"The greatest rock & roll movie ever made" (per the London Times), Anvil! The Story of Anvil, is a genius, hysterical and heartwarming documentary about an aging heavy metal duo, Anvil's Steve "Lips" Kudlow and Robb Reiner, and their quest to fulfill their rock & roll fantasies.
Formed in late '70s, the Canadian heavy metal band Anvil experienced early success with record deals, critical acclaim and a slot on 1982's Monsters of Rock tour. Influencing the likes of Metallica, Motorhead and Anthrax, by the late '80s, early '90s, Anvil dropped off the face of the earth, releasing independent records and playing bar gigs in Canada. Anvil! The Story of Anvil, released in 2008, picks up with the band during present day.
Last summer, Anvil! The story of Anvil played at the Ken Theater for a week. I saw it three times. Needless to say, I can't recommend this movie enough (currently available on DVD). Filled with laughs, optimism and tragedy, it's a wonderful, well-rounded film. During its run at the Ken, "Lips" and Robb were on-site (one evening) for a Q&A and a performance with Anvil at the Ken Club. Sadly, I missed it.
However, since the release of the film, Anvil has been propelled back into the limelight with appearances on television/festivals, a new record in the works (Juggernaut of Justice) and a VH1 tour booked through 2010, including a stop at the House of Blues/San Diego!!! Here's the info :
VH1 Classic Presents The Anvil Experience with the Suicide Chords on Feb. 2. This is an all-ages show.
All ages
Perhaps I'll see you at the show? I'll be the tall dude in the front, screaming "Metal on Metal" from the top of my lungs, watching Anvil satisfy their childhood dreams.
