This Is Spinal Tap

Summary This Is Spinal Tap is a 1984 mock documentary that follows the fictional British heavy metal band Spinal Tap on a disastrous American tour. The film was directed by Rob Reiner and features the band members playing themselves. It presents a behind the scenes look at the group and captures many comedic moments such as the infamous eighteen inch high Stonehenge stage prop and the malfunctioning amplifiers that go to eleven. The movie is widely regarded as a classic of comedy cinema and has influenced many later mock documentaries. Highlights include the humorous portrayal of the band’s manager and the absurdity of the tour schedule the iconic mock interview segments and the memorable musical performances that blend satire with genuine rock energy. The soundtrack features original songs that parody metal tropes and has become a cult favorite among fans. The film uses a handheld camera aesthetic that mimics real documentary footage and this style adds to the authenticity of the humor. The characters are played with deadpan seriousness which heightens the absurdity of the situations. The movie features a memorable scene where the band discusses the size of the Stonehenge prop and the audience reacts with confusion. The soundtrack includes a track called Sex Farm that showcases the band’s satirical lyrics. The DVD release was praised for its picture quality and for preserving the original theatrical experience. The film was released on DVD in the United States on September 15 2009 by MGM and the DVD edition includes bonus material such as commentary tracks deleted scenes and a making of feature. The game was added to iOctavio.com on August 6 2008 and the item can be located by searching for the title within the comedy genre category. This Is Spinal Tap remains a staple of comedy film collections and continues to be referenced in popular culture.