Anvil! The Story of Anvil
User Score
8.4 out of 10

Universal acclaim- based on 42 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 37 out of 42
  2. Mixed: 3 out of 42
  3. Negative: 2 out of 42

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  1. MaciejMojo
    May 2, 2009
    9
    I thought it was a fantastically made film. Entertaining yet it actually tugged at your heart strings in a very genuine and non-too sappy way. You really do root for these guys because they may be the most real individuals that have ever been captured on film.
  2. NickE
    Jul 3, 2009
    10
    This was genuinely one of the best films I've seen. The guys from Anvil have the most heart and drive of anyone I've ever seen, and it's astounding. Struggle, hardship, but also perseverance and friendship, this movie is a real treat. Rock on Anvil!
  3. TeresaL.
    Oct 5, 2009
    10
    This movie is so moving...a true testament to the human spirit. I am so thrilled that Anvil is getting the recognition that they definitely deserve. Fantastic movie. Just purchased my signed copy of the dvd. Long Live Anvil!!!!!
  4. LyleS.
    Oct 6, 2009
    10
    This is the best rock movie of all time - it is the essence of love for rock.
  5. SteveH
    May 2, 2009
    10
    This documentary will keep interested throughout the movie. It's all about friendship and the dream
  6. RaymondW.
    Oct 14, 2009
    4
    From the first moment when you heard one of Anvil's songs, it was very clear why they weren't famous
  7. KellyP
    May 15, 2009
    9
    We're still talking about Anvil a month later! It's the best kind of movie - the kind that stays with you. You don't have to be a headbanger to thoroughly enjoy it.
  8. AdamV
    May 31, 2009
    10
    One of the best movies I have ever seen -- documentary, feature, short subject. Funny, sad, poignant, moving, and real. A great achievement.
  9. NachoC
    May 3, 2009
    10
    A true gem of a film. Its really a test of the human spirit, even though these guys had hit rock bottom and there was no rope to climb to get back up, they perused their dreams. Brought me and my mother to tears, honestly a masterpiece. I recommend it to anyone who has a "unreachable" dream.
  10. GabbyG.
    Oct 13, 2009
    8
    This film showed how much bands have to go through. it alson showed the dark side of the business. not all bands get a fairy tale ending.
  11. JoshB
    Apr 22, 2009
    10
    Easily one of the best documentaries I've ever seen. It's one of those docs where you have trouble believing that the people and events are real.
  12. SteveB
    May 14, 2009
    4
    It is clearly a labor of love for those who made the film, and if you're familiar with the band you'll like it also. But for the average person, it's only marginally interesting. The band certainly has a lot of heart and persistence.
  13. BenM
    Aug 16, 2009
    10
    This gets a full 10 points - you can't lose with this film, it will stick with you. And I've got to say the music was pretty damn good too.
  14. ERG1008
    Aug 19, 2010
    8
    Documentary about long forgotten Canadian Rock Monsters Anvil. Took me a while to realise that this is real & not some Spinal Tap rip off & it is done very well. Don't really remember too much about them but lots of good words from Slash, Lars Ulrich, Scott Ian, etc.
    I was sort of split between feeling sorry for them & wanting them to move on with their lives but nevertheless you still do     warm to Steve "Lips" Kudrow & Robb Reiner.… Expand
  15. charlotteydwi
    Feb 12, 2013
    9
    This documentary was truly moving, it gave a perfect example of what bands really go through to "get to the top". You are rooting for them throughout!

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
82 out of 100

Universal acclaim - based on 26 Critics

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 26 out of 26
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 26
  3. Negative: 0 out of 26
  1. Variety
    Reviewed by: Dennis Harvey
    80
    Well-shot and edited, Anvil! is an underdog saga even non-metalheads will root for. It tows that fine line between chuckling at its protags' somewhat absurd situation and celebrating their sheer unwillingness to give up.
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  2. Empire
    Reviewed by: Sam Toy
    100
    The lyrics to AC/DC’s Long Way To The Top were never more appropriate. Anvil! is exactly what's needed to slap the recent rash of doomsayer documentaries in the face -- preferably with a studded, fingerless leather glove.
    Read full review
  3. The Globe and Mail (Toronto)
    Reviewed by: Liam Lacey
    75
    Surprisingly touching and funny.
    Read full review
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