It’s like, how much more 4K could this be? And the answer is none. None more 4K.
It’s been over 40 years since Rob Reiner’s 1984 Spinal Tap set the standard for the mockumentary genre. It’s incisive, droll, and hilarious take on 80s heavy metal bands and the nuances of going on tour, positioning it as a landmark comedy that has permeated pop culture, inspired scores of comedies that followed, and in recent weeks, generated a sequel of its own. But, this is all about the OG.
Reiner himself stars as filmmaker Marty DiBergi, a filmmaker (and fan of the band) who sets out to chart the groups attempt to set off from Blighty and embark on their tour of the US. An event should be the crowing achievement of their careers reveals the misfunction behinds the scenes, the quirks of the core band members, and decline of their popularity. A train-wreck of a misadventure unfolds as issues with venues and transport, production design, and in-band conflict seem set to tear apart what is already a rickety setup.
The trio making up the band Nigel Tufnel (Christopher Guest), David St. Hubbins (Michael McKean), and Derek Smalls (Harry Shearer) all aspire to go out with a bang with this final tour. Fame has gone to their heads, and lack of awareness, or outright denial, that they are past their prime, only adds to the problems. Throw into the mix their own tics, love interests, high-maintenance behavior and you have a perfect recipe for comedy. While secondary, the drama element is there, with emotional heft coming from reflections on life and legacy, as well as through ego clashes, speaking to creativity and again relevance.
The film draws inspiration from the legendary demands and outrageous behavior of many rock stars of a more wanton age. Woven throughout are bizarre catering requests, outlandish demands for stage backdrops, not to mention the personal interests and pursuits of the trio themselves off-stage. Shots are also taken at the many maneuvers of bands in the 70s and 80s to court controversy, find ways to stand out, and more notably follow trends, the latter being showcased in a montage sequence showcasing the various iterations of Spinal Tap over the years, from twee folk music to hard rock.
The film harkens back to a bygone age, but these themes and practices are all still relevant, perhaps even more so in this age of social media and influencers. What really seals the enduring nature of Spinal Tap though is how it’s acerbic wit is tempered by largely improvisational comedy where warmth comes through, balancing the spoof and mockery. The film never lets up in delivering the laughs, with visual gags, ongoing jokes (the drummer curse never fails to raise a smile), and a healthy balance of smart and downright silly humor. Where else would you get to see an ‘artist’ craft a piece of music inspired by Mozart and Bach called “lick my love pump”.
The Package
The new 4K transfer shows a good level of detail, superb balance of colors and contrast, and a natural grain distribution throughout. No artifacts or issues with image stability seen throughout. The overall grungy feel is maintained, but you can appreciate both this aesthetic and the improved nuances of the visuals. Mini-Stonehenge has never looked so good/bad.
The release presents with a rigid card coverslip housing an interior housing the discs, and the usual Criterion booklet. Three discs are included. One showcasing the Reiner supervised 4K restorations, another with a Blu-ray copy of the film, with a third hosting most of the extra features:
- Three audio commentaries, featuring Reiner; actors Christopher Guest, Michael McKean, and Harry Shearer; producer Karen Murphy; editors Robert Leighton and Kent Beyda; and band members Nigel Tufnel, David St. Hubbins, and Derek Smalls: The first is largely about the actors approach and rapport, the second about inspirations and approach to the production, the third is the standout, as the trio lock into their characters and take on Marti for his negative portrayal of them
- Conversation between Reiner and actor Patton Oswalt: Devout Spinal Tap fan Oswalt talks about the film with its director
- The Cutting Room Floor, featuring ninety-eight minutes of outtakes: A mega addition with a relentless volume of extra footage. Just a treat to sift through
- Spinal Tap: The Final Tour (1982): A 20minute demo reel/proof of concept that helped get the film makde
- Excerpts from The Return of Spinal Tap (1992): About their DTV reunion gig in ’92
- Interviews with the band for its 2009 Back from the Dead album:
- Trailers, media appearances, and music videos:
- PLUS: An essay by critic Alex Pappademas: Puts some real world context to some of the gags
- New cover by Dan Goldsworthy
The Bottom Line
Spinal Tap is regarded as a comedy landmark for good reason. It’s enduring blend of smart (and stupid) humor, improv comedy, and at times poignant reflection on fame and legacy still resonate. It’s permeated popular culture, created iconic characters and moments, and Criterion’s 4K transfer doesn’t just offer an opportunity to revisit a classic, but to do so in a way with it turned up to 11.
Spinal Tap is available on 4K-UHD via Criterion now
