1. Anvil: The Story Of Anvil
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FF4H8lB2Y_o Sacha Gervasi's 2008 documentary serves as the progenitor for the movement of documentaries depicting artists that "were never as big as they should have been." The particular artists in question are 80s metal band Anvil, who served as a key element in the development of speed metal among artists such as Metallica and Anthrax. Though as opposed to most bands belonging to the aforementioned subgenre of documentary, Anvil have remained together for over thirty years. The film follows them as they embark on a European tour that barely stays together, bludgeoning the band with disappointing encounter after disappointing encounter. At one particular venue, their audience is next to none save for several headbangers and a goat. The film plays on the notion that viewers are hungry for discomfort. There is something relatable in seeing people who are constantly being beaten back by the music industry and yet won't give up. But the cross section of people who watch something such as "This Is Spinal Tap" and find something to laugh at are hit with the depressing reality that these musicians faithfully remain in. The duo work at their respective depressing jobs, trying to gather together money to record their 13th studio album. What follows is an excruciating exercise in rejection. And yet, there is a persistence of hope. As much as "Anvil: The Story of Anvil" is an upsetting comic endeavor, it is also a portrait of those who will never give up which leaves as much optimism as it can.