This Is Spinal Tap

Something like Zoolander, (death-)metal/hippy style. Absolutely unhinged, but takes itself deathly seriously (Volume! Mimes! Compromise! Cocoons! Main DVD menu coming up! Final credits!). And this is probably the only movie mystification that worked in real life. So - Spinal Tap’s not dead! (02/19/2009)

I understand the Spinal Tap phenomenon – Reiner managed to create a believable and mystifying documentary that humorously charts an egotistical generation of rock musicians. The precise actors spout incredible stoner wisecracks and the fading fame of the quirky band is perfectly reflected in the thoughtfully ironic lyrics of its songs. But I’m not giving it 4* because it lacks any significant conflict between the band members, about whom we don't learn much despite their personal confessions. It's a more or less fun hippie trip with the protagonists enclosed in their own world, which is hard to penetrate if you haven't watched any real music documentaries. Maybe I will fully appreciate it after I’ve watched some. 70% (09/02/2018)

Great movie. Really. I didn't even realize that I would have so much fun watching it, but this is simply a great combination of comedy, documentary, and also rock, which I still love so much. The band is perfectly assembled and it is clear that the script was tailor-made. Let's be honest, if I didn't know anything about the movie, I would be certain that it is more than just a funny group. (12/22/2015)

“It's such a fine line between stupid and clever”, or a captivatingly clever comedy that takes the attributes of rock bands and their myths and dials them up to the point of caricature, thus putting their thundering stupidity and generic would-be originality of full display. (05/18/2022)