The definitive answer to the question is deceptively simple: there are two official Spinal Tap movies. While many fans hold out hope for another installment, as of today, only This Is Spinal Tap (1984) and its concert film companion Spinal Tap: The Big Bottom Experiment (2009) constitute the band’s cinematic oeuvre.
A Deep Dive into the World of Spinal Tap Cinema
The story of Spinal Tap, arguably the loudest and least lucky rock band of all time, has resonated with audiences for decades. While the band’s discography may be extensive (fictitiously, of course), their filmography is significantly more concise. Understanding the films themselves, and their place within the Spinal Tap universe, is key to appreciating the band’s enduring legacy.
This Is Spinal Tap (1984): The Groundbreaking Mockumentary
This Is Spinal Tap, directed by Rob Reiner and starring Reiner, Christopher Guest, Michael McKean, and Harry Shearer, is widely considered a groundbreaking mockumentary. Its improvised style and unflinching depiction of rock and roll excess and absurdity set a new standard for comedic filmmaking. The film follows the fictional band Spinal Tap on their ill-fated 1982 American tour, capturing their infighting, technical mishaps, and ultimately, their descent into rock and roll obscurity. It’s a masterclass in improvisation and observation, and its influence can be seen in countless subsequent comedies.
Spinal Tap: The Big Bottom Experiment (2009): Return to the Stage
Released in 2009, Spinal Tap: The Big Bottom Experiment is a concert film documenting the band’s reunion performance at the 2009 Glastonbury Festival. While not a full-fledged mockumentary like its predecessor, it serves as a companion piece, offering a glimpse into Spinal Tap’s continued relevance (and incompetence) decades later. This film provides fans with an opportunity to witness the band perform their classic songs live, showcasing their musical prowess (or lack thereof) and their undeniable comedic chemistry. It underscores the staying power of Spinal Tap and their unique brand of rock and roll satire.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Spinal Tap Movies
Here are some frequently asked questions to further clarify the subject of Spinal Tap movies and their wider impact.
1. Is The Return of Spinal Tap a Real Movie?
No, The Return of Spinal Tap is not a real movie. It is a title often associated with rumors or wishful thinking among fans eager for a sequel. While there have been discussions and speculations over the years, no official sequel to This Is Spinal Tap has ever been produced.
2. What is Spinal Tap Goes to Europe?
Similarly, Spinal Tap Goes to Europe is not an existing film. This title likely stems from the band’s fictional history, suggesting potential tours or documentaries that never materialized within the official canon. It speaks to the enduring desire of fans to see more of Spinal Tap’s misadventures.
3. Are There Any Spinal Tap TV Shows or Specials?
Beyond the two films, Spinal Tap has appeared in various TV appearances and specials. This includes performances and interviews, often in character, but no dedicated Spinal Tap TV series has been produced. These appearances further enrich the band’s fictional history and provide additional comedic moments for fans to enjoy.
4. What is the Significance of This Is Spinal Tap?
This Is Spinal Tap is significant because it revolutionized the mockumentary genre. Its improvised style, realistic portrayal of band dynamics, and satirical take on the rock and roll lifestyle have made it a cult classic and a major influence on subsequent comedies.
5. Who Directed and Starred in This Is Spinal Tap?
This Is Spinal Tap was directed by Rob Reiner. He also starred in the film as Marty DiBergi, the documentary filmmaker. The film also stars Christopher Guest as Nigel Tufnel, Michael McKean as David St. Hubbins, and Harry Shearer as Derek Smalls.
6. Where Can I Watch This Is Spinal Tap and Spinal Tap: The Big Bottom Experiment?
Both films are widely available on streaming platforms such as Amazon Prime Video, iTunes, and Google Play. They are also frequently broadcast on cable television and available on DVD and Blu-ray. Availability may vary depending on your region.
7. Is the Music in This Is Spinal Tap Real?
Yes, the music in This Is Spinal Tap is written and performed by the actors themselves. Christopher Guest, Michael McKean, and Harry Shearer are all accomplished musicians, and they wrote and performed all of the band’s songs for the film.
8. What is “Stonehenge” in This Is Spinal Tap?
“Stonehenge” refers to a memorable scene in This Is Spinal Tap where the band orders a stage prop of Stonehenge, but it arrives significantly smaller than intended due to a miscommunication about measurements (“inches” instead of “feet”). This scene has become iconic and is a prime example of the band’s comedic mishaps.
9. Is There a Spinal Tap Reunion Planned?
While there have been occasional reunion performances and discussions about future projects, no official Spinal Tap reunion is currently planned. The actors remain active and have worked together on other projects, but a full-fledged Spinal Tap reunion remains uncertain.
10. How Did This Is Spinal Tap Influence the Rock and Roll Genre?
This Is Spinal Tap has had a profound impact on the rock and roll genre by satirizing its clichés and excesses. Many musicians have admitted that the film accurately portrays the often-absurd realities of touring and band dynamics.
11. What Makes This Is Spinal Tap so Enduringly Popular?
The enduring popularity of This Is Spinal Tap stems from its realistic portrayal of band life, its sharp satire, and its timeless humor. The characters are relatable, and the situations are often hilariously absurd, making it a film that resonates with audiences of all ages.
12. Will There Ever Be a Third Spinal Tap Movie?
The possibility of a third Spinal Tap movie remains a topic of speculation. While there have been discussions and ideas floated, no concrete plans have been announced. The actors have expressed interest in revisiting the characters, but any future project would need to meet their high standards to live up to the legacy of the original film.
In conclusion, while the fictional world of Spinal Tap is vast and imaginative, encompassing a long and colorful (if ultimately unsuccessful) career, the cinematic record remains at two official movies: the iconic This Is Spinal Tap and its concert film companion, Spinal Tap: The Big Bottom Experiment. Fans can always hope that Nigel Tufnel’s amplifier will one day be cranked up to 11 for a third installment, but for now, the existing films offer plenty of laughs and a timeless satire of the rock and roll lifestyle.