Spinal Tap 2: The End Continues
Spinal Tap 2: The End Continues is playing in theaters at the time of writing. Rated R. Common Sense says 14+.
The now estranged bandmates of Spinal tap are forced to reunite for one final concert - hoping it will solidify their place in the pantheon of rock’ n’ roll.
STORY: D
A very long comedy skit.
The movie doesn’t really have a plot. It’s a situation stretched out over 83 minutes: Tap reunites for one more gig, and - no surprise - preparation does not go smoothly.
I’m sure no one will show up to this movie expecting a deeply moving story. But I can’t help but think some of its comedic bits (even the ones that do land) would be more effective if they were draped over a more solid narrative.
PEOPLE: C
So great to have the band back together.
Nigel, David, and Derek haven’t changed a bit. They’re older, but not any wiser.
There are a few notable rock’ n’ roll cameos that remind us how revered the original film is by the old guard. But they’ve all long gone gray (or spend big bucks on hair dye).
Not inviting today’s music legends feels like a missed opportunity to turn a new generation on to these classic rockers.
FILM NERD STUFF: C-
Capable editing helps hide the lack of narrative.
The editing moves the film along at a fairly brisk pace. It gives the film an oddly modern vibe, like scrolling through a feed that bounces back and forth between band rehearsals and goofy comedy.
The swift pace creates a nice rhythm and distracts us from the lack of story.
ONE BIG LESSON: Excused
This film knows who it is.
I could say the lesson is to never sit down at Spinal Tap’s drum kit. I could say the lesson is to always read your Airbnb host’s expectations closely. I could say the lesson is to not overindulge on dairy products.
Please.
There’s no lesson here. Nor should there be. A lesson would feel inauthentic to the film’s spirit. Kudos to the filmmakers for knowing their audience.
FINAL COMMENTS:
I am of an age where I’ve seen a lot of my favorite bands on their “Final Reunion Tours.” At their best, the acts rip through the classics just the way we remember them, transporting us back in time.
However, there are a couple easy ways to screw these concerts up. For example, no one shows up to hear a bunch of tunes from the new album. Also, we don’t want to hear any “interesting” new interpretations of the classics.
Spinal Tap 2: The End Continues commits both these sins. The new comedic bits aren’t bad, but they pale in comparison to their earlier stuff. And when they do sing the classics, it’s clear they’ve lost a step or two over the years.
Despite these flaws, I still recommend the film to fans of the original. It doesn’t feel like the old times. Instead, it feels like an evening catching up with old friends.