---
title: "Anvil! The Story of Anvil"
year: 2008
canonical_url: "https://www.archytele.com/show/anvil-the-story-of-anvil-2008"
media_type: "movie"
tmdb_id: 18094
imdb_id: "tt1157605"
status: "Released"
runtime_minutes: 81
community_rating: 7.6
vote_count: 276
content_rating: "NR"
---

# Anvil! The Story of Anvil (2008) — Television & Cinema Intelligence Dossier

> **Archytele Living Vault Canonical Record**: https://www.archytele.com/show/anvil-the-story-of-anvil-2008

## Executive Summary & Cultural Positioning

Anvil! The Story of Anvil is a 2008 documentary directed by Sacha Gervasi. It chronicles the lives of Robb Reiner and Lips, who formed the band Anvil at age 14 and were known as the demi-gods of Canadian metal. The film follows the duo in their fifties as they attempt to record their 13th album following a calamitous European tour.

Culturally, the film highlights the band's influence on a generation of musicians, including members of Metallica, Slayer, and Anthrax. The production includes interviews with figures such as Tom Araya, Scott Ian, and Lars Ulrich to document the band's impact on the music scene.

## The Hook & The Verdict

**The Hook**: "Two lifelong friends in their fifties attempt to record one final album to fulfill boyhood dreams."

### Why Watch
- Explores the influence of Anvil on bands like Metallica, Slayer, and Anthrax
- Features interviews with musicians including Slash, Lemmy, and Lars Ulrich
- Follows the journey of Robb Reiner and Lips as they record their 13th album

### Caveats & Content Note
- Focuses specifically on the niche world of Canadian heavy metal
- Tone & Suitability: This documentary follows the band's attempt at a comeback with a runtime of 1 hour and 21 minutes.

**Micro-Themes & Vibe Matrix**: #canadian-metal, #music-documentary, #lifelong-friendship, #pursuit-of-dreams, #heavy-metal-history

## Streaming Availability Matrix

| Region | Stream (Subscription) | Free / Ads | Rent / Buy |
| :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- |
| **United States (US)** | Criterion Channel | Kanopy, Hoopla, Fawesome | Amazon Video, Apple TV Store, Fandango At Home |
| **United Kingdom (GB)** | None | Plex | None |
| **Canada (CA)** | Criterion Channel | Hoopla | Apple TV Store |
| **Australia (AU)** | None | Hoopla | None |

## Creative Credits

- **Directed by**: Sacha Gervasi
- **Networks / Studios**: Zootrope Films, Abramorama, VH1 Rock Docs

## Key Cast Continuity

- **Steve 'Lips' Kudlow** as *Self - Lead Guitar*
- **Robb Reiner** as *Self - Drummer*
- **Kevin Goocher** as *Self*
- **Glenn Gyorffy** as *Self*
- **William Howell** as *Self*
- **Tiziana Arrigoni** as *Self - Manager*
- **Slash** as *Self*
- **Lemmy Kilmister** as *Self*
- **Scott Ian** as *Self*
- **Lars Ulrich** as *Self*

## Canonical Frequently Asked Questions

### Q: Who is featured in the film besides the band members?
The film features interviews with musicians including Slash, Tom Araya, Lemmy, Scott Ian, and Lars Ulrich.

### Q: What is the runtime of the movie?
The movie has a runtime of 1 hour and 21 minutes.

### Q: Is this film worth watching for music fans?
It provides insight into the influence Anvil had on major metal bands like Metallica and Slayer.

### Q: Where can I stream the film?
The provided sources do not list specific streaming platforms.

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*Generated by Archytele Open Intelligence Systems. Data verified against TMDB and JustWatch APIs.*