Deep Thoughts: This is Spinal Tap Artwork

The Not Ready for Prime Time Project: An SNL Retrospective

An in-depth journey into the legacy of one of television's most iconic and influential shows - Saturday Night Live. Through deep dives into its most memorable eras, behind-the-scenes stories, and analysis of its evolution, we celebrate and debate all things SNL - the show that has become an institution, defining comedy for over 50 years.

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The Not Ready for Prime Time Project: An SNL Retrospective

Deep Thoughts: This is Spinal Tap

October 16, 2025 • Two Pints Productions, Inc.

With Sabrina Carpenter hosting this week's SNL in support of her new album—obviously a direct homage to the early '80s heavy metal classic Smell the Glove—we're looking back at the film that took us backstage with one of England's loudest bands.

This is Spinal Tap is absolutely loaded with Saturday Night Live connections. The film is Rob Reiner's (S1 host) directorial debut, which he co-wrote with stars Christopher Guest (S10 cast), Michael McKean (S9 host, S19-20 cast), and Harry Shearer (S5, S10 cast). It also features appearances by Billy Crystal (S9 host, S10 cast), Dana Carvey (S12-18 cast), Paul Shaffer (S5 cast, S12 host), Fred Willard (S4 host), Howard Hesseman (3x host), Ed Begley Jr. (S10 host), and Anjelica Huston (S11 host).

We're turning things up to 11 as we explore the groundbreaking cult classic that created the mockumentary genre and redefined what comedy could be. We talk tiny Stonehenge, spontaneously combusting drummers, and the very fine line between stupid and clever.

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