This Is Spinal Tap

1984 | DCP | USA | D: Rob Reiner

Closed Captions available

This Is Spinal Tap is Rob Reiner’s feature directorial debut in which he also appears as the film’s documentary filmmaker, Marty. Shot in Los Angeles over five weeks using handheld 16mm cameras, audiences follow a fictional heavy metal band as they navigate ego, mishap and diminishing relevance.

Deadpan interviews and escalating absurdity blur the line between satire and reality, exposing the fragility beneath rock bravado. Its affectionate mockery of fame and excess has made it endlessly quotable and quietly influential.

‘So accurate it hurts — the joke is how close it comes to the truth.’ - Roger Ebert, Chicago Sun-Times





The NFSA offers closed captioning and audio description services through Dolby Accessibility Solution receivers. A total of 15 receivers are available for selected screenings.  
  
To book your receiver  

• Email tickets@nfsa.gov.au with your name, contact details, and the screening you would like the receiver for.  
• Unreserved receivers will be available from reception before the screening. Receivers are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.  
  

To collect your receiver  

• Please arrive at least 15 minutes before your screening start time and collect from NFSA Reception (McCoy Circuit entrance).  
• An NFSA staff member will set up your receiver and provide a brief demonstration on how to use it  
• Headphones are provided, however, you’re welcome to bring your own if they have a 3.5mm headphone jack.