This Is Spinal Tap: Up To 11 Edition

Film Review by Michael Lawson | 26 Aug 2009
Film title: This Is Spinal Tap: Up To 11 Edition
Director: Rob Reiner
Starring: Michael McKean, Christopher Guest, Harry Shearer
Release date: 7 Sep
Certificate: 15

Newcomers to Rob Reiner’s classic shouldn’t have the difficulties its first audience had in understanding its humour. That’s because this comic masterpiece (not a word to be used lightly) has influenced pretty much every comedy film and television series ever since, its gags, plot points, one-liners and mockumentary format rocking their way into the public consciousness. If you’re not yet acquainted with Messrs Tufnel, St Hubbins and Smalls, this 3-disc monster is essential, but if you’re a hardened Taphead, this new edition should heighten your perspective (but not too much perspective). Many of the extras were on the previous 2-discer (such as the excellent in-character commentary), but additional features here include an Albert Hall concert, a performance of Stone Henge at Live Earth, an interview with Reg Presley about his inadvertent influence on the movie, archive titbits and a new documentary about the film’s impact, featuring (among others) Armando Iannucci, Ricky Gervais, Anvil and Kings of Leon. Smell that glove!