This is Spinal Tap: Special Edition

Arguably history's greatest--but uncontested loudest--heavy-metal band, Spinal Tap is back on disc in this second DVD release of the famed rock(mock?)umentary This is Spinal Tap. Boasting a new digital transfer (though I confess the grainier Criterion original was more attuned to the film's cinéma-vérité feel), the film takes viewers behind-the-scenes with commercial director Marty DiBergi (director Rob Reiner) as he explores all the sights, sounds and smells surrounding the comeback tour of England's legendary rockers. As funny and witty a satire as you're likely to see, and featuring an audio commentary by the band itself along with nearly two hours of extras, this one warrants our highest recommendation. Editor's Choice. (S. C. Sickles)