Rob Reiner’s Iconic Film Moments
Rob Reiner, a renowned film director, recently appeared on CBS’s 60 Minutes, where he discussed his latest projects, including the sequel to his classic film, This Is Spinal Tap. However, he also reflected on one of his most iconic films, When Harry Met Sally, which was released in 1989. The movie features a memorable scene where the characters, played by Billy Crystal and Meg Ryan, have a conversation in a busy deli. The scene becomes awkward when Ryan’s character fakes an orgasm, and Reiner’s mother, Estelle Reiner, delivers one of the most famous lines in film history: "I’ll have what she’s having."
The Making of a Classic Scene
Reiner recalled the challenges of filming this scene, particularly when he had to demonstrate to Ryan how he wanted her to act. He said, "In the first few takes, she didn’t do it. And finally, I was sitting across from Billy, and I played it for her… and I hit the table, ‘Yes! Yes! Yes!’ And I realize that I’m having an orgasm in front of my mother, you know, my mother is right there." This anecdote highlights the complexities of filmmaking and the sometimes-uncomfortable moments that directors and actors face.
Changing Endings and New Beginnings
Interestingly, Reiner also discussed how he changed the ending of When Harry Met Sally to a happy one, which was not the original intention. He applied a similar approach to the sequel of This Is Spinal Tap, which was released 41 years after the original. Reiner acknowledged the "high bar" set by the cult classic and wondered if it was crazy to attempt another installment. However, after Harry Shearer, who plays Derek Smalls, successfully sued for control of the rights to the original, the path was cleared for a sequel.
The Mockumentary Genre and Ad Libbing
Both This Is Spinal Tap and its sequel rely heavily on ad libbing, which Reiner refers to as "riffing." The films feature famous faces, including Paul McCartney, and were inspired by real scenarios. Reiner cited an example of Van Halen’s contract, which included a clause requiring a specific type of candy, M&M’s, to be provided. He said, "Apparently, Van Halen had a rider in their contract: ‘No brown M&M’s.’ So some roadie had to sit there and pick out the brown M&M’s. It’s crazy. So we looked at it and said, ‘There’s a scene.’" This approach to filmmaking has contributed to the mockumentary genre and has influenced many other films and directors.
The Legacy of This Is Spinal Tap
The original This Is Spinal Tap was released in 1984 and is credited with starting the mockumentary genre. The film pokes fun at rock bands and their excesses, and its sequel continues this tradition. Michael McKean reprises his role as David St. Hubbins in the new film, which was released in cinemas and is available on streaming platforms. Reiner’s work on these films has left a lasting impact on the film industry, and his willingness to take risks and push boundaries has inspired a new generation of filmmakers.
