The world of rock is set to collide spectacularly with the silver screen once again as Lars Ulrich of Metallica and Chad Smith of the Red Hot Chili Peppers have officially been cast for cameo appearances in the hotly anticipated sequel to the cult classic mockumentary, ‘This Is Spinal Tap’. The pair will inhabit the roles within the notorious universe of the film, which famously satirizes the eccentricities and excesses of rock ‘n’ roll culture.
While the specifics of Ulrich’s and Smith’s characters have not been disclosed, Deadline has unveiled that they are slated to portray a pair of the many ill-fated drummers that have been part of the Spinal Tap legacy. This aligns with the original film’s running gag that the band’s drummers were consistently met with bizarre and untimely fates.
The sequel will also welcome back some familiar faces including Fran Drescher, who will once again step into the role of the sharp and savvy publicist Bobbi Flekman. The ensemble cast features a diverse mix of talents ranging from actors Don Lake and John Michael Higgins to skateboarder Jason Acuna and ventriloquist Nina Conti. Actor Griffin Matthews, British comedian Kerry Godliman, satirist Chris Addison, and comedian Brad Williams will also join in the comedic mayhem.
Adding to the star-studded line-up, musical icons Sir Paul McCartney and Sir Elton John are confirmed for appearances, ensuring that the film’s portrayal of the music industry remains as authentic as it is exaggerated. Paul Shaffer, best known for his work on ‘Late Night with David Letterman’, is another music industry stalwart set to make an appearance, bridging the gap between comedy and genuine rock stardom.
The sequel sees Rob Reiner back in the director’s chair, reprising his quasi-documentarian role as Marty DiBergi from the 1984 original. The first installment, which he also directed, became a cult phenomenon for its satirical edge and remarkable authenticity, forging a legacy that has endured for nearly four decades.
Current production updates indicate that the cameras are already rolling on this much-awaited follow-up, although an official release date remains as elusive as a Spinal Tap drummer’s life expectancy. While the project was originally earmarked for a March 2024 premiere, moviegoers and music aficionados alike are advised to stay tuned for a firm date when they can witness this epic reunion.
Both within and beyond the realms of English and World cinema, the ‘Spinal Tap’ franchise has carved its niche, revered for its witty take on the rock n’ roll genre. Fans have been clamoring for more content since the credits rolled on the ’84 comedy, and with the convergence of authentic rock stars like Ulrich and Smith, the expectations are set high for this sequel.
Amidst the buzz and speculation, what remains clear is that ‘This Is Spinal Tap’ sequel is not dialing anything down. It is poised to crank up the volume, the humor, and the star power all the way to eleven, ensuring that this comedic sequel will rock audiences just as hard as its predecessor. With a mix of old and new faces, alongside some of rock’s most iconic figures, ‘Spinal Tap II’ is shaping up to be a symphony of satirical genius, eagerly awaited by those who love to rock and those who love to laugh.
