‘This Is Spinal Tap’: Rob Reiner On 41 Years Of Amplified Genius & Rock ‘N Roll Lore, and ‘Spinal Tap II’ [The Discourse Podcast]

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There are few comedies more universally beloved or endlessly quotable than "This Is Spinal Tap", the 1984 mockumentary that redefined musical satire. Directed by Rob Reiner, who also appears as fictional documentarian Marty DiBergi, the film follows a hilariously inept British metal band on a disastrous American tour. It's a film so committed to authenticity that real-life rock stars, from Ozzy Osbourne to Sting, famously thought it was real.

With the 41st anniversary of "This Is Spinal Tap" around the corner, Reiner joined The Discourse to reflect on the film’s origins, legacy, and long-gestating sequel. “What we did with this film—we tried to be as honest as we could about what really happens on rock and roll tours,” Reiner says. “Every band that we’ve ever run into, every rock star, comes up and says it’s a staple on their tour bus.”

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That commitment to truth, even in absurdity, is what gives the film its staying power. “Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers got lost backstage. Van Halen had the crazy rider. We used it all,” Reiner adds. “That’s why I think it works.”