Anvil - the Story of Anvil (2008)

When they were teenagers, Robb and Lips formed the heavy metal band Anvil and vowed to never give up on their dream of making it big. They came close during the 1980s when they played festivals in Japan with upcoming metal bands of the day. Now thirty years later, the two are still pursuing the rocknroll dream, which is both heartbreaking and uplifting at the same time.

The film follows the band on a European club tour which tests their friendship and dedication to the band. They have to deal with a well intentioned but inexperienced tour manager, not getting paid, getting lost trying to find a gig, living in a van, and playing to almost no one. Granted these are things that most musicians have to deal with on this type of tour, but when you're fifty and time is running out on your dream, it's devastating.

In another person's hands, this might make the band look like a joke, but the filmmaker knew Anvil in the 1980s when he was one of their roadies. Whether it is this friendship or good filmmaking, he never goes for the cheap laugh. There are so many scenes which are uncomfortable to watch and you root for the band to finally get a payoff for all their hard work.

The movie is incredibly well done and makes you feel for the band. The portrayal of their friendship, Lips usual ability to remain overwhelmingly positive in his belief in the band, and their families long suffering acceptance of their pursuit of their passion is really very touching.