The Enduring Legacy of This Is Spinal Tap

Published in 1984, Rob Reiner's mockumentary film This Is Spinal Tap has become a cult classic that continues to influence popular culture to this day. The movie's witty dialogue, satirical take on the music industry, and iconic characters have cemented its place as one of the greatest comedies of all time.

The Birth of a Mockumentary Masterpiece

This Is Spinal Tap was written by Reiner, with contributions from Christopher Guest, Michael McKean, and Harry Shearer. The film is presented in a mockumentary style, where the events are being documented through interviews with the band members themselves. This format allows for a unique blend of humor and satire, as the audience is given a behind-the-scenes look at the world of Spinal Tap.

The Band: A Fictional Rock Icon

Spinal Tap is a fictional rock band from England, known for their over-the-top stage shows, outrageous behavior, and music that is often described as "shockingly bad." The band consists of David St. Hubbins (Christopher Guest), Nigel Tufnel (Michael McKean), and Derek Smalls (Harry Shearer).

The Music: A Satirical Take on Rock

Spinal Tap's music is a send-up of the excesses of 1970s rock. Their songs are often absurd, with titles like "Big Bottom" and "Tonight I'm Gonna Rock You Tonight." The band's lead singer, David St. Hubbins, is particularly adept at delivering cringe-worthy lyrics and awkward stage performances.

The Stage Shows: A Spectacle of Excess

Spinal Tap's live shows are a sight to behold. The band is known for their elaborate stage sets, pyrotechnics, and general all-around excess. The film captures the chaos and mayhem that ensues during these performances, providing some of the most memorable moments in comedy history.

The Interviews: A Window into the Band's Psyche

Throughout the film, the band members are interviewed about their experiences on tour, their music, and themselves. These interviews provide a unique insight into the band's psyche, revealing their insecurities, contradictions, and sheer absurdity.

The Iconic Characters

The characters in This Is Spinal Tap are some of the most iconic in comedy history. David St. Hubbins is the egotistical lead singer with a penchant for bad lyrics; Nigel Tufnel is the eccentric guitarist who is obsessed with loudness; and Derek Smalls is the bassist who is desperate to prove himself as more than just a footnote.

The Legacy of This Is Spinal Tap

This Is Spinal Tap has become a cultural touchstone, influencing countless bands, comedians, and writers. The film's impact can be seen in everything from The Simpsons to Family Guy, as well as in the work of musicians like Weezer and Tenacious D.

The Influence on Comedy

This Is Spinal Tap helped establish the mockumentary genre, paving the way for films like Borat (2006) and Best in Show (2000). The film's success also paved the way for future comedians to experiment with absurdity and satire in their work.

The Cast: A Who's Who of Comedy Talent

This Is Spinal Tap boasts an impressive cast of comedy talent. Christopher Guest, Michael McKean, and Harry Shearer are all veterans of the improv scene, while Rob Reiner is a respected director and producer. The film also features a number of memorable supporting performances from Paul Herman as Christopher Knight.

The Music: A Retrospective

Spinal Tap's music has become iconic in its own right. Their songs have been covered by countless bands, and their style has influenced everything from punk rock to country music. The band's most famous song, "Big Bottom," has become a staple of '80s nostalgia.

The Legacy Lives On

This Is Spinal Tap continues to inspire new generations of comedians, musicians, and writers. The film's influence can be seen in everything from social media to advertising, as well as in the work of bands like Tenacious D and Weezer.

Conclusion

This Is Spinal Tap is a true comedy classic that continues to delight audiences to this day. Its witty dialogue, satirical take on the music industry, and iconic characters have cemented its place as one of the greatest comedies of all time. As a cultural touchstone, it will continue to inspire new generations of comedians, musicians, and writers for years to come.

Fun Facts

• The film was shot over the course of five weeks in 1983.
• Christopher Guest, Michael McKean, and Harry Shearer wrote much of the dialogue for the film.
• Rob Reiner has said that he based Spinal Tap on his own experiences with the band Cheap Trick.

Trivia

• "Tonight I'm Gonna Rock You Tonight" was originally going to be a duet between David St. Hubbins and a guest musician.
• The famous "Stonehenge" scene was filmed at Stonehenge in England, but it was not actually filmed during daylight hours.
• Spinal Tap's music has been featured in numerous films, TV shows, and commercials over the years.

Cast and Crew

• Director: Rob Reiner
• Writers: Christopher Guest, Michael McKean, Harry Shearer
• Producers: Rob Reiner, Sandy Howard
• Cast:
  • Christopher Guest as David St. Hubbins
  • Michael McKean as Nigel Tufnel
  • Harry Shearer as Derek Smalls
  • Paul Herman as Christopher Knight

Crew

• Director of Photography: Barry Sonnenfeld
• Editor: Peter Boyle
• Music Supervisor: Jon Branon

Release Date

This Is Spinal Tap was released in 1984 by Columbia Pictures.

Box Office Performance

This Is Spinal Tap grossed over $19 million at the box office on a budget of just $2.5 million.