‘Spinal Tap II: The End Continues’ is a 2025 American mockumentary comedy film directed by Rob Reiner. A sequel to This Is Spinal Tap’ (1984), the film features Christopher Guest, Michael McKean, and Harry Shearer reprising their roles as members of the fictional heavy metal band Spinal Tap, who are reuniting after 15 years for one final show. As a musician, I loved the original film and found it hilarious. There’s a reason many consider it the best rock and roll movie ever made, so how would a follow-up sequel hold up after all these years?
All of the original characters return, with the exception of the numerous drummers who have come and gone. Their roles are just as hilarious and enjoyable as before. Having worked in the music business and dealt with the kinds of characters and situations presented in the movie, I laughed all the way through this sequel just like I did with the original.
Reiner’s direction is brilliant in bringing back such beloved characters while also introducing new ones that we can appreciate. The film explores what has happened to the characters since the mid-1980s, offering a fresh perspective 40+ years later. Each character and actor appears to understand both the humor and the reality being portrayed on screen. This recognition contributes to the memorable cameos from famous musicians like Garth Brooks and Elton John, who added humor and appreciation for this film from within the industry.
Musicians should be flocking to the theater to support this film—though sadly, they don’t seem to be doing so—and bringing their fans along with them.
The world lately doesn’t seem very kind. We live in a time void of humor. During times like these, we need laughter and inspiration to turn away from the hate that surrounds us. If a band that couldn’t stand each other can come back and rediscover their love for each other and the music that has been absent for so long, then perhaps we can find that connection as well.
While age can impact our lives, music has a unique ability to take us back to our youth, reminding us of happiness and purpose. This connection, whether from a musician’s or a fan’s perspective, is something we all need. ‘Spinal Tap II’ serves as a good reminder of that, and I wholeheartedly recommend it.
While we may wonder about drummers and their quirks, they continue to be a part of the music scene, bringing both challenges and joy.
On a scale of 1 to 10 for this exceedingly enjoyable rockumentary, I give it an enjoyable 8.
