This Is Spinal Tap (1984)

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Director: Rob Reiner

Writers: Christopher Guest & Michael McKean & Harry Shearer & Rob Reiner

Stars: Michael McKean, Christopher Guest, Harry Shearer, Rob Reiner, Tony Hendra, R.J. Parnell, David Kaff, June Chadwick



Documentary filmmaker Marty DiBergi (rob Reiner) chronicles the final US tour of the unappreciated heavy metal band Spinal Tap (Michael McKean, Christopher Guest, and Harry Shearer). 



This hilarious parody of the rock scene is so good that it is often credited with starting an entire sub-genre of mock documentaries (although I seem to recall Eric Idle in a film about a fictional group "of no fixed hairstyle" called the Rutles back in the 70s).

 


Fans of 70s and 80s metal will catch many references that will slip by others.

 


The real miracle of this film is that it skewers its target so mercilessly, and yet avoids becoming cruel. 



The enthusiasm of the Tap members for being rock stars is so pure and joyful, even after many years and despite the reality of their crumbling tour, that we can't help but wish them well.






















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