Calgary Producers Launch Sequel to Comedy Classic ‘Spinal Tap’

UPDATE: Calgary producers are making headlines as they gear up for the highly anticipated release of This is Spinal Tap II: The End Continues, set to hit theaters on September 12, 2023. This long-awaited sequel to the 1984 cult classic is creating buzz in the film industry, especially with the involvement of the original director, Rob Reiner, who is back at the helm.

Chad Oakes, co-founder of Calgary’s Nomadic Pictures, expressed his excitement about participating in this project. “It’s probably helped that the offer was coming from Rob Reiner himself,” Oakes stated, highlighting the significance of the film’s legacy and Reiner’s status as a cinematic icon. He noted that the original film is among his all-time favorites, saying, “Some of my top 20 films of all time are Rob Reiner films.”

The production team is tackling the financial side through a newly established Calgary-based private film equity company, Arctic Palm Film Capital, which aims to boost local investment in film. Oakes and fellow producer Mike Frislev are spearheading the financing efforts, ensuring that the sequel has a solid financial foundation. “Remember, it is a business,” Oakes added, emphasizing the importance of the financial aspects in filmmaking.

Filming for Spinal Tap II took place in New Orleans earlier this year, specifically in January and February, and the team is now preparing for the red carpet premiere at the historic Egyptian Theatre in Hollywood on the evening of the launch. This event marks a significant moment for fans of the original film and those involved in the production.

The original This is Spinal Tap was not a commercial success upon its release, but it has since garnered acclaim as a cultural phenomenon, even being preserved in the National Film Registry by the Library of Congress. It is celebrated for its unique style as a mockumentary, following the fictional British heavy metal band Spinal Tap on their disastrous farewell tour.

Reiner, along with original cast members Christopher Guest, Michael McKean, and Harry Shearer, are all returning for the sequel, promising fans a blend of nostalgia and new comedic elements. Oakes noted that witnessing Reiner and the cast having fun on set revitalized his faith in the film industry, underscoring the project’s emotional resonance.

As anticipation builds for the premiere, fans of the original film and newcomers alike are eager to see how this beloved comedy will evolve. The film not only pays tribute to its predecessor but also aims to capture the current cultural climate, making it a must-watch for comedy enthusiasts.

Stay tuned for more updates as the premiere date approaches and follow the excitement surrounding This is Spinal Tap II: The End Continues. This is not just a film; it’s a celebration of a legendary comedic legacy.