One of the most iconic heavy metal films of all time is getting a sequel, and it’s going to be backed by plenty of star power.
Released in 1984 and written and directed by Rob Reiner, “This Is Spinal Tap” follows one of England’s “loudest bands” on tour in America. The satire poked fun at the outrageous behavior and musical pretentiousness of rock bands of the late ’70s and early ’80s. The sequel will begin filming early next year.
Reiner recently revealed on the “RHLSTP With Richard Herring” podcast: “We’re making a sequel. We’re going to start shooting in the end of February, and everybody is back.”
Reiner told Deadline last year: “They’ve played Albert Hall, played Wembley Stadium, all over the country and in Europe. They haven’t spent any time together recently. The idea was that Ian Faith, who was their manager, he passed away. In reality, Tony Hendra passed away. Ian’s widow inherited a contract that said Spinal Tap owed them one more concert. She was basically going to sue them if they didn’t. All these years and a lot of bad blood we’ll get into and they’re thrown back together and forced to deal with each other and play this concert.”
Reiner will also again appear in the film. “I’m back playing Marty DiBergi,” he said. “The band was upset with the first film. They thought I did a hatchet job and this is a chance to redeem myself. I am such a big fan and I felt bad they didn’t like what they saw in the first film. When I heard they might get back together, I was a visiting adjunct teacher’s helper at the Ed Wood School of Cinematic Arts. I drop everything to document this final concert.”
In addition to the core cast returning — Christopher Guest, Michael McKean and Harry Shearer will reprise their roles as Nigel Tufnel, David St Hubbins and Derek Smalls, respectively — Reiner also revealed that Paul McCartney, Elton John and Garth Brooks would all be making cameos in the film.
“This Is Spinal Tap” has become a cult classic since its first theatrical run 38 years ago, and it has spawned numerous memorable moments and lines.
