Lesley Stahl recently interviewed the iconic band Spinal Tap on the set of their sequel, “Spinal Tap II: The End Continues.” This reunion marks a significant moment for fans of the original cult classic, “This is Spinal Tap.” During the interview, Stahl engaged with the lead actors, all of whom portray the beloved band members.
Interview Highlights
As Stahl arrived, she anticipated meeting Michael McKean, Christopher Guest, and Harry Shearer. However, she found herself interacting directly with the characters they portray. McKean’s character, David St. Hubbins, welcomed her in a charming English accent, playfully referencing 60 Minutes’ reputation for uncovering corruption. Tufnel, played by Guest, humorously responded to Stahl’s reference about amplifiers going to 11, a classic joke from the original film.
The Improv Comedy Style
Director Rob Reiner praised the improvisational skills of the actors, emphasizing that the creative process for both films relied heavily on spontaneity. “It’s like a jazz musician,” he noted, highlighting their ability to build on each other’s performances without a scripted framework. This improvisation made the editing process for “Spinal Tap II” more complex, as Reiner compared it to assembling a jigsaw puzzle with no reference image.
- Title: “Spinal Tap II: The End Continues”
- Original Film: “This is Spinal Tap”
- Director: Rob Reiner
- Lead Actors: Michael McKean, Christopher Guest, Harry Shearer
Actors’ Favorite Moments
During the interview, Stahl inquired about their favorite scenes from the original film. McKean shared his admiration for Guest’s solo performance, which features him playing a guitar while humorously engaging with a violin. This scene, like many in the film, was improvised and remains a fan favorite.
Influence on Modern Comedy
The mockumentary style pioneered by “This is Spinal Tap” has influenced numerous contemporary television shows and films, including “The Office” and “Parks and Recreation.” When asked if they anticipated creating a new genre, the actors reflected on the joy of making the film, rather than any expectation of its future impact.
This delightful encounter showcases the humor and creativity that have solidified Spinal Tap’s legacy in film and comedy. As the band prepares for their concert and the release of the new film, fans are excited to see how this iconic group continues to evolve.
