Rob Reiner’s final movie was a sequel to the best mockumentary of all time

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I was so sad to hear about Rob Reiner’s passing. It’s amazing to think that one of his final roles was in a sequel to This Is Spinal Tap – honestly, still the funniest mockumentary ever made! It really shows what an incredible, long-lasting career he had, spanning 58 years. It’s a huge loss.

Authorities discovered the body of the 78-year-old actor at his Los Angeles home on December 14th, along with his wife, Michele Reiner. Police are investigating the deaths as a homicide, and reports indicate their son, Nick Reiner, may be involved. As of now, the Los Angeles Police Department has not made any arrests or confirmed the allegations against him.

The recent death of Rob Reiner has prompted fans to remember his impressive career, especially his successful run as a director in the 1980s. He’s particularly celebrated for directing beloved films like “Stand by Me” and “Misery,” both based on novels by Stephen King.

He’s famous for his roles in popular films and TV series like Sleepless in Seattle, The Wolf of Wall Street, New Girl, and The Bear. His most recent film, released in theaters in September 2025, is a sequel to what many consider the greatest mockumentary ever made.

What was Rob Reiner’s last movie?

I was so excited to finally see Rob Reiner’s newest film, Spinal Tap II: The End Continues! It’s a sequel to This is Spinal Tap from 1984, which, let’s be real, is basically the gold standard for mockumentaries. The first movie is hilarious – it follows this British band as they tour America trying to get their album noticed.

The film takes inspiration from documentaries about bands like The Beatles and Led Zeppelin, and its dry humor quickly gained it a dedicated fanbase. Rob Reiner starred as Marty Di Bergi, a filmmaker who documents the band’s tour, revealing their chaotic present and strange past – including the infamous story of a drummer who spontaneously exploded on stage.

Four decades later, Reiner returned to play Di Bergi in the sequel, Spinal Tap II: The End Continues. The film brings back Nigel Tufnel (Christopher Guest) and David St. Hubbins (Michael McKean) as they reunite after 15 years to stage a comeback concert with bassist Derek Smalls (Harry Shearer).

Reiner not only acted in the film, but he also directed the sequel, a natural progression since he directed the first one. Just as the original movie satirized concert films of its time, the sequel draws inspiration from more recent music industry happenings, such as the breakup and reunion of Oasis, fueled by the Gallagher brothers’ dynamic.

The film also includes surprise appearances by Paul McCartney, Elton John, Wee Man, and Lars Ulrich, as the band’s trademark wild energy spills onto and off the stage. Director Rob Reiner told Billboard they’d been asked to make a sequel many times, but it never felt like the right time until now.

People were constantly suggesting a sequel to us, but we always felt like we’d already finished what we wanted to do. We never felt pressured to make one, or even really considered it. It wasn’t something we were eager to revisit.”

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2025-12-15 14:51