Photo via geektyrant.com
By Keith Walther | Rose Law Group Reporter
After over 40 years since the original cult classic rocked its way onto the silver screen, the director and cast reunite for a sequel that wonderfully recaptures the magic of the first. Like its predecessor, “Spinal Tap II: The End Continues” is a mockumentary focusing on a fictional English rock band. It has the same charm and hilarity that enthralled audiences in 1984 but also raises the bar to make the stage even grander this time around.
15 years after Spinal Tap played their last concert together, documentarian Martin DiBergi (Rob Reiner) returns with a where-are-they-now follow up piece. When it is discovered that the loud rock band has one more concert to perform to fulfill their old contract, David St. Hubbins (Michael McKean), Nigel Tufnel (Christopher Guest), and Derek Smalls (Harry Shearer) get back together for a gig in New Orleans. Old grievances and animosities resurfacing between David and Nigel, struggles to find a drummer willing to face a dire curse, and their music promoter who hates music all threaten to derail their big show. Whether it happens or not, Martin DiBergi will be there to document it all.
“This Is Spinal Tap” was Rob Reiner’s directorial debut in 1984, so it’s only fitting that he returns to the director’s chair all these years later to helm the sequel. This is a celebrated and Oscar nominated director who is responsible for some of the greats like “The Princess Bride,” “When Harry Met Sally…,” and “A Few Good Men.” He uses the same documentary style approach that he used for the original, putting himself in front of camera to interview the band members and other affiliated characters. In this way, Reiner brings audiences similar humor through hilarious banter, silly antics, and rampant stupidity that fans of the original will appreciate.
The major difference is the quality of production. While the first film felt like it was shot using a home video camera, this one uses a dual digital camera setup that provides visual enhancement but still allowing the ability to capture the spontaneous improvisation of the cast. Reiner takes it another step further by incorporating cameos from musical legends like Elton John, Paul McCartney, Questlove, and more. This coupled with an upgrade in venue gives the film a more grandiose vibe that will appeal to fans and newcomers alike. In addition, setting the film in New Orleans is a nice touch to better connect with American audiences.
Thankfully, all three stars from the original were able to reprise their roles for this sequel, and they do not disappoint. Michael McKean, Christopher Guest, and Harry Shearer slip right back into these roles as if they never stopped playing them. Guest is especially hysterical early in the film, showing his character as an operator of a cheese and guitar store in England. McKean has not lost a step either, belting out familiar rock songs from the first film as well as new lyrically humorous tunes. The sidesplitting banter between the three of them is a constant source of amusement for viewers to enjoy. And yes, they do impressively perform the music themselves. Even Fran Drescher and Paul Shaffer return briefly to reprise their roles.
Despite the separation of 40+ years, this sequel represents a return to form in all the right ways that is taken to the next level with comical fervor. “Spinal Tap II: The End Continues” is a joyously entertaining spectacle that is destined to leave you smiling and chuckling long after the movie is over. Whether you’re a fan of the original or a newcomer, don’t miss the opportunity to witness this mockumentary in theaters. Even the songs are funny and catchy with lyrics that will continuously dance in your brain.
This movie earns
