So the marvellous documentary ANVIL! - The Story of Anvil is about to arrive on US screens. The film has been out in the UK for a while now, and I'd like to tell the people in the US that are wondering whether or not to see it that their tickets will be well worth the money. The film is wonderful, and there is a great deal to be enjoyed in it whether you're a metal fan or not. Lips and Robb are fast becoming heroes to many people through this film. Now that people are waking up to the band and their music, the dream that is fought so hard for during the film is coming true. By going to see it, you are actively helping to create a new ending for the film- you are making the dreams of these people come true. In all honesty, it is deserved.I've seen the film twice on the big screen, bought the CD (the one you see made in the movie) from the band and even bought the book, for the simple reason that by the end of the film you are genuinely on the side of the band. I felt compelled to help out and show my appreciation the easiest way- by checking out more of the story and the music itself. I wasn't disappointed. The album 'This is Thirteen' is an excellent album of no-frills, old school heavy metal, evoking the classics. The reason is evokes the genre's classics is because these guys were one of the bands that created the genre we love in the first place.
The book tells the full story of the band's early years up to the present day, and the
voices of Robb and Lips are plainly audible when you read it. I recommend you see the film first, then buy the book, as it really works well as a companion piece. Some of the asides in the book are unforgettable, and the whole thing is very much on a par with the film itself. The two items work so well together.I truly, honestly hope that the Anvil movie opens up new avenues for the band. As a fan of rock and metal, the film is enlightening and fun, but that goes for anyone as a general viewer too. In my capacity as a journalist for a national rock magazine I get to interview musicians and review their albums, but seeing this film has opened my mind to the concept of rock stars being normal people even further than it already was. These two guys are genuinely likeable, their story is equal parts hilarious and compelling, and it is honestly the most moving metal documentary I have ever seen. Please, please go and see it, and you'll realize that for once, the hype is for real.
Anvil's website
Anvil- The Story of Anvil movie site
Anvil- The Story of Anvil book site (UK)
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