Spinal Tap II: The End Continues is in cinemas on September 25.~|~|nWiba9IWZG
Spinal Tap 2: The End Continues, the long-awaited sequel to the iconic 1984 mockumentary This Is Spinal Tap, has found it challenging to maintain audience engagement over its brief runtime of just 82 minutes. Directed once again by Rob Reiner, the film reunites the original cast, including Michael McKean, Harry Shearer, and Christopher Guest. Despite the nostalgia surrounding its release, the film has struggled to capture the magic of its predecessor.
The sequel’s plot revolves around the fictional rock band Spinal Tap, which had a successful run until a breakup 15 years earlier. The daughter of their former manager, played by Kerry Godliman, inherits a contract that stipulates one final concert. As Spinal Tap’s song Big Bottom gains renewed popularity due to a performance by Garth Brooks and Trisha Yearwood, the band’s reunion is initiated by Marty DiBergi, portrayed by Rob Reiner.
Upon locating the members, DiBergi discovers Nigel, now a cheese shop owner, David, a podcast composer, and Derek, who runs a glue museum. The reunion is fraught with unresolved issues from their past and the effects of aging are evident among the once-vibrant rockers.
While there are moments of humor—such as a symphony titled Hell Toupee and Nigel’s quirky habit of hiding cheese in his guitar—the film lacks the cohesive narrative that made the original a classic. Critics have noted that the film’s energy wanes quickly, with even the star-studded cameos from Paul McCartney and Elton John failing to rejuvenate the storyline.
The absence of deeper themes regarding aging, friendship, and fame leaves the film feeling underdeveloped. Unlike its predecessor, which expertly navigated the absurdities of the music industry, this sequel does not provide a meaningful exploration of the characters’ lives as they evolve over time.
At its core, Spinal Tap 2 delivers sporadic laughs but ultimately lacks substance. With the final act devolving into what feels like a concert film, audiences may find themselves losing interest long before the credits roll. Even the anticipated return of the 18-foot Stonehenge fails to provide the satisfaction fans hoped for.
As the film concludes, one can only hope that Christopher Guest decides against revisiting any more of his beloved classics in the future.
