80s Movie Review - This is Spinal Tap

Director: Rob Reiner
Genre: Comedy/ Mockumentary
Runtime: 82 minutes
Year: 1984
Starring: Christopher Guest, Michael McKeen, Rob Reiner, Harry Shearer, Fran Drescher, Ed Begley Jr.

Description: Spinal Tap, one of England’s loudest bands, is chronicled by film director Marty DiBergi on what proves to be a fateful tour.

I WATCHED THIS MOVIE FOR MY 2025 MOVIE CHALLENGE.
WEEK 37: A FILM FROM 1984
 
Review: In this halrious debut film from director Rob Reiner, we follow the American comeback tour of the fictional rock band Spinal Tap. They are touted by fans as the loudest heavy metal band in the UK.
Absurd stage experiences are interspersed with interviews that start out realistic but invariably end up completely absurd. The band’s nonchalant attitude makes it extra funny. Much of the humor lies in what is not said: a surprised look, or the silence after a strange statement.

What elevates this film above a bland parody is the credibility with which it is presented. Because regardless off all the stories, the life on the road of a rock band is portrayed quite accurately here: the traveling, the hotels, the backstage areas, the tour bus, the stage.

“This is Spinal Tap” is an entertaining, hilarious mockumentary. Some of the songs in this movie are just to die for. Great film.

Rating: 4/ 5

100 Movie Challenge 2016 - # 115: Little Shop of Horrors

Director: Frank Oz
Genre: Musical/ Comedy/ Horror
Runtime: 94 minutes
Year: 1986
Starring: Rick Moranis, Ellen Greene, Vincent Gardenia, Steve Martin, John Candy, Bill Murray, Christopher Guest

Description: A nerdy florist (Rick Moranis) finds his chance for success and romance with the help of a giant man-eating plant who demands to be fed.

Review: The story was first told in 1960, in the movie “The Little Shop of Horrors”. This movie is known for a few things: the short time it was filmed in (two days), the first appearance of Jack Nicholson and the doubtful quality. The last one didn’t stop producer David Geffen to turn it into a stage musical in the 80s. First he described it as the worst idea ever, but “Little Shop of Horrors” grew to be a huge hit. Eventually they made a movie version of this stage musical, directed by Frank Oz. And again a success.
And I understand why this is (still) a great and un musical. The songs are catchy and good, the cast is fun, the humor is dark and funny, the set looks great and the camera work is stylish. And Audrey II, the talking plant, looks amazing. For a movie from 1986, it looks stunning. Real craftsmanship.
“Little Shop of Horrors” is a great adaptation of a stage musical, a funny and comedic musical. Don’t take the film too seriously and you will definitely enjoy it. I love “Little Shop of Horrors”.

Rating: 5/ 5

100 Movie Challenge 2016 - # 67: The Princess Bride

Director: Rob Reiner
Genre: Comedy/ Adventure/ Romance/ Fantasy
Runtime: 98 minutes
Year: 1987
Starring: Cary Elwes, Robin Wright, Mandy Patinkin, Chis Sarandon, Christopher Guest, Wallace Shawn, Andre the Giant, Fred Savage, Peter Falk, Peter Cool, Mel Smith, Billy Crystal, Carol Kane

Description: While home sick in bed, a young boy's (Fred Savage) grandfather (Peter Falk) reads him a story called The Princess Bride.

Review: “The Princess Bride” is a story that is told by a grandfather to his sick grandson. It’s about a beautiful farmer’s daughter Buttercup, who is madly in love with farm boy Westley. When they admit their love for each other, Westley leaves to earn money for their wedding. On his journey Westley is ambushed by pirates and Buttercup knows her love died. Years later Buttercup is forced to marry Prince Humperdinck. Right before the wedding, she is captured by three men who plan on declaring war to another kingdom. But the trio is chased by a masked stranger.
“The Princess Bride” is highly praised, as a fantasy film, but also as a romance and for its comedy. It has something for everyone. The people who dislike this film, take it way to seriously. There is a parody feel to this film and it’s very aware of itself. I love the combination of fantasy, action, comedy and romance.
“The Princess Bride” had been on my watchlist for a long time. Now that I finally saw it, I will definitely rewatch it many times. I’m a fan of “The Princess Bride”.

Rating: 5/ 5