Anvil! The Story of Anvil

At the dawn of the 1980s, the Canadian band Anvil was at the forefront of the speed metal movement. They released an album (Hard 'n' Heavy), played shows with some of the most prestigious heavy rock acts in the world, and amassed a devoted following in their homeland and across North America that included bands such as Metallica and Slayer, who have cited Anvil as a major influence.

But somehow their big break never materialised. As their contemporaries went on to enjoy glittering success, vocalist Steve "Lips" Kudlow and drummer Robb Reiner clung to their dream, recording on independent labels, playing club gigs and attempting to marry their undiluted love for metal to the responsibilities of adulthood. Sacha Gervasi's documentary is a quiet, subtle and moving production - a sensitive and impressive study of fading ambition, disillusionment and obsession. ·