AroView: A 40-years-later sequel to the 1984 comedy classic, again directed by Rob Reiner, whose recent tragic death makes it unexpectedly poignant. He reprises his role as documentarian Marty DiBergi, who tracks down the estranged members of the famously fictional British metal band as they prepare for a reunion concert.

It’s quite a beautiful thing to witness Michael McKean, Christopher Guest and Harry Shearer, now in their late 70s, all surviving to tell more made-up tales in their masterful deadpan style, while their real-life working relationship is also one to cherish. More ‘heavy mellow’ than ‘heavy metal’ this time, the parody is not so much about the absurd hubris of the genre but the recent phenomenon of being a rock fossil – a pair of famous ones even show up to pay ‘em tribute.

“There’s something beautiful about the fact that they’ve found their way to this moment, after so many decades — one where the only laughter they care about is each other’s.” ~Liz Shannon Miller, Consequence

“If you are part of that target demographic, Spinal Tap II: The End Continues has a lot to enjoy. That’s especially true when the film shows off a few surprisingly heartwarming moments, which were definitely not as prevalent in the original story.” ~Aidan Kelley, Collider