The original mockumentary This Is Spinal Tap has now become a thing of movie legends and the 41st anniversary of its release will boast two events – the release of a follow-up, Spinal Tap II: The End Continues, on September 12, 2025, and ahead of it, on July 7, 2025, the original film will be shown in theatres again.
Christopher Guest, Michael McKean, and Harry Shearer comprise the fictional band that director Rob Reiner captures as character documentarian Martin “Marty” DiBergi. The concept for the film was co-created by all aforementioned stars; Reiner directs, with June Chadwick, Tony Hendra, and the late Bruno Kirby co-starring. Karen Murphy produces.
This Is Spinal Tap was released to critical acclaim, but its initial release found only modest commercial success. Its later VHS release brought it greater success and a cult following. In 2002, it was deemed “culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant” by the Library of Congress, and was selected for preservation by the National Film Registry. It has been credited with “effectively” launching the mockumentary genre. It is also notable as the origin of the phrase “Up to eleven.”
Spinal Tap II will follow a reunion between the Spinal Tap members for one final concert after a 15-year hiatus. Elton John, Paul McCartney, Garth Brooks, and Trisha Yearwood will appear as themselves. Paul Shaffer, David St. Hubbins, Nigel Tufnel, Derek Smalls, Fran Drescher, Don Lake, John Michael Higgins, Nina Conti, Griffin Matthews, Kerry Godliman, and Chris Addison will also star in the Bleecker Street film.
