‘Spinal Tap II: The End Continues’ Blu-ray Review
Stars: Christopher Guest, Michael McKean, Rob Reiner, Harry Shearer, Valerie Franco, Jean Cromie, Kerry Godliman, Garth Brooks, Trisha Yearwood, June Chadwick, Fran Drescher, Griffin Matthews | Written by Christopher Guest, Michael McKean, Rob Reiner, Harry Shearer | Directed by Rob Reiner
Back in 1984, audiences were introduced to something truly unique: a mockumentary about a fictional British rock band called Spinal Tap. This Is Spinal Tap didn’t just parody rock culture – it redefined it, slowly building a reputation as one of the great cult classics.
Now, more than 40 years later, the band is cranking the amps back up for a long-awaited sequel, Spinal Tap II: The End Continues. After its theatrical run, this new mockumentary is finally making its way to home video shelves everywhere… including, very possibly, your own.
Follow Spinal Tap England’s loudest and most punctual band as they reunite after a 15-year hiatus for one final concert.
Let’s be honest: the original This Is Spinal Tap really did catch lightning in a bottle. Trying to recreate that magic is no easy task. Spinal Tap II leans heavily into nostalgia, and sometimes it lands, sometimes it doesn’t. What helps it work at all is the return of Rob Reiner, both behind the camera and in front of it. And of course, Christopher Guest and Michael McKean are back as well. Without them, let’s face it, this simply wouldn’t be Spinal Tap.
Spinal Tap II: The End Continues has been transferred to Blu-ray in 1080p and is presented in widescreen format. The audio track is an English DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1. There is also the option for English subtitles for the deaf and hard of hearing. The transfer is crystal clear with spot-free imagery. The colours are nice, and the flesh tones are correct. As for the audio track, it’s not bad. Nothing to write home about, but not bad.
Now, for me, I always love to see what the bonus features are in a Blu-ray release. Well, I was thoroughly disappointed here. There is nothing. I would have loved to see some bonus interviews, maybe telling stories about the original in comparison to this sequel. A Director’s Commentary would have been nice too. But alas, there is nary a thing.
If you loved the original film, you will get a kick out of Spinal Tap II: The End Continues. This Blu-ray is a nice way to see it. I just wish there were more to this disc than just the movie. If you would like to order your copy on Blu-ray, head over to Amazon now.
***½ 3.5/5
Spinal Tap II: The End Continues is out now.
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