MONDAY 5/25
‘ANVIL: THE STORY OF ANVIL’
7 p.m., Market Street Cinema, $8.
Don’t think you have to be a heavy metal or documentary fan to appreciate this testament to human spirit, perseverance and determination. Since its Sundance premiere last year, this rockumentary has been hailed as one of the greatest rock films ever made. As an added bonus, this special viewing will be followed by a three-song set by the band in the flesh. Filmmaker Sacha Gervasi, known largely as the screenwriter for Steven Spielberg’s “The Terminal,” was a roadie at age 16 for these Canadian metal pioneers, who are widely cited as major influences for bands such as Metallica, Slayer and Anthrax. Fast forward 35 years and Gervasi discovers that founding members lead vocalist Steve “Lips” Kudlow and drummer Robb Reiner never quit the band they founded together at age 14, and are still chasing an elusive dream while juggling jobs, families and adult responsibilities. Camera in tow, Gervasi documents the band’s attempt at a European tour, complete with empty halls, missed trains and unpaid gigs, while capturing the sentiments of wives, children, fans, roadies and all who come in contact with the two warriors who refuse to acquiesce to a dream that’s fading fast, but still might have life in it. With cold beer and wine available, it’s hard to pass on such an opportunity.
—Paul Peterson