A New Chapter for Spinal Tap
Rob Reiner’s 1984 mockumentary, “This Is Spinal Tap,” set the stage for a unique genre of comedy that blends rock and roll with satire. Now, nearly four decades later, Reiner returns as both director and documentary filmmaker in “Spinal Tap II: The End Continues.” This sequel reunites the original cast—Michael McKean, Christopher Guest, and Harry Shearer—as the members of the fictional English rock band, Spinal Tap. For those who haven’t seen the original, this sequel might not offer much in terms of immediate appeal. However, for fans of the first film, it brings back a mix of nostalgia and humor.
The original film ended with a disastrous Druid-themed glam rock show that left the band in disarray. In the sequel, the band is forced to perform one last show due to a hidden clause in their contract. This sets up the central question: Are the characters meant to be bad, good, or simply good-bad? The answer isn’t clear, but the film doesn’t shy away from its own absurdity.
While the original movie was a groundbreaking piece of comedy, “The End Continues” doesn’t necessarily make you rush to your VHS or DVD collection. It stands on its own, though it may not fully capture the magic of the first film. The story follows the band members as they navigate their lives post-music careers. David St. Hubbins (McKean) now lives in Morro Bay, writing music for murder podcasts and horror movies. Nigel Tufnel (Guest) has become a cheesemonger, while Derek Smalls (Shearer) runs a glue museum in London. Each character’s journey reflects the challenges of aging and the struggle to maintain relevance in a changing world.
The film also brings back some familiar faces, including Paul Shaffer and Fran Drescher, although these appearances feel more like fan service than essential storytelling. The band’s quest for a new drummer leads them through a series of auditions, featuring notable figures such as Questlove, the Blue Man Group, and even Lars Ulrich of Metallica. Ultimately, they settle on Didi Crockett, a lesbian drummer played by Valerie Franco, an actual drummer in real life.
Other celebrities make appearances throughout the film, adding to the comedic elements. Paul McCartney causes panic during rehearsals, while Elton John makes a memorable onstage appearance with a slapstick fall that echoes the first film. Garth Brooks and Trisha Yearwood appear briefly, perhaps just to highlight the band’s place in a fictional music universe.
The humor in “The End Continues” is dry and deadpan, relying heavily on the audience’s familiarity with the original material. Fans of Christopher Guest’s work, such as “Best in Show” and “A Mighty Wind,” will find the style familiar. John Michael Higgins steals the show with his flamboyant personal trainer character, adding a layer of physical comedy to the film.
For those who have followed the legacy of “This Is Spinal Tap,” the sequel serves as a nostalgic reminder of the band’s impact. The original film was nearly impossible to get made, with Reiner facing rejection from studios. Today, with its established legacy, “The End Continues” likely had an easier time being produced. However, the film’s success hinges on how well it resonates with fans of the original.
In conclusion, “Spinal Tap II: The End Continues” is a mixed bag. While it offers a humorous take on aging and legacy, it may not fully live up to the expectations set by the original. Nonetheless, it remains a worthwhile addition for fans of the franchise and those who appreciate the unique blend of rock and comedy. The film is set to release in theaters on Friday, September 12.
