"Film director Rob Reiner discloses the means by which he secured the attendance of Sir Paul McCartney and Sir Elton John, knighted individuals, in the latest Spinal Tap film"
In an exciting turn of events, the upcoming sequel to the iconic 1984 'rockumentary' about British hard rock band Spinal Tap, titled "Spinal Tap II: The End Continues," is set to feature guest appearances from two music legends – Sir Paul McCartney and Sir Elton John.
According to director Rob Reiner, the idea for these cameos was inspired by real-life events. McCartney, it seems, once casually dropped by a Spinal Tap rehearsal session at a complex in the Valley, finding the band in the midst of a rehearsal. In the film, this serendipitous meeting is reimagined, with McCartney stopping by the Spinal Tap rehearsal in New Orleans, having heard they were practicing there.
Reiner, in an interview with Rolling Stone's Music Now podcast, discussed the process of bringing these musical icons into the film. He emphasised the band's enthusiasm for working with McCartney and John, and praised both artists for their roles, which pay homage to the legendary fictional band Spinal Tap.
In one scene, Spinal Tap performs The Folksmen's Start Me Up in the presence of Sir Paul McCartney, a nod to an actual event. The band members were thrilled about the presence of McCartney and John, and appreciated the opportunity to work with two Knights and two Sirs.
Rob Reiner described Elton John as someone who loves playing music and dives right into it. He found John easy to work with, having only met him once before. The members of Spinal Tap were honoured to have John in the film, and Reiner praised him for his cameo.
Details about Sir Elton John's role in the film are scarce, but it is known that he appears in the film. Reiner emphasised that despite the characters' actions in the film, the real-life musicians are down-to-earth people who love music. He reiterated that at the end of the day, it's just guys playing music in the film.
The film also features a reunion show in New Orleans by the iconic British hard rockers, David St. Hubbins, Nigel Tufnel, and Derek Smalls. "Spinal Tap II: The End Continues" is set to be released on September 12, and promises to be a rocking celebration of the enduring spirit of music.
