Tenacious D in the Pick of Destiny (2006)

Tenacious D in The Pick of Destiny is a 2006 musical comedy that dives into the outrageous fictional origins of the rock duo Tenacious D (Jack Black and Kyle Gass). Combining slapstick comedy, musical numbers, and over-the-top rock mythology, the film is equal parts parody and love letter to rock and roll.

Detailed Summary

JB’s Rock Awakening

The movie begins with young Jables (Jack Black’s character as a kid) living in a conservative, music-hating family. Inspired by a vision of rock icons, he runs away from home, determined to become the world’s greatest rock star.

The Birth of Tenacious D

In Venice Beach, JB meets a homeless busker, Kyle Gass (KG), whom he initially mistakes for a legendary rock god. After a few hilarious mishaps, the two decide to form a band: Tenacious D. They vow to write the greatest song of all time but quickly realize their natural talent needs… a little magical assistance.

The Legend of the Pick of Destiny

They learn of a legendary guitar pick called the Pick of Destiny, forged from the Devil’s tooth. According to myth, whoever wields the pick achieves unstoppable rock power. Their mission becomes clear: steal the Pick from the Rock and Roll History Museum.

The Heist

In classic rock-comedy fashion, their plan to break into the museum spirals into chaos. After drug-fueled detours and run-ins with security, they manage to snag the Pick. For a brief moment, they taste rock godhood.

Movie Ending (Full Spoilers)

The climax occurs when JB and KG face off against Satan himself (played with demonic flair by Dave Grohl) in a rock-off, after the Pick of Destiny shatters during the fight. The rules are set: if Tenacious D loses, Satan takes JB as his sex slave; if they win, Satan must return to hell.

The battle is an epic rock duel, with Satan belting heavy metal while JB and KG counter with their comedic yet powerful anthem, “Beelzeboss (The Final Showdown).” Despite losing the Pick’s power, JB manages to use his guitar skills and quick wit to deflect Satan’s energy beam with his guitar, severing one of Satan’s horns. This fulfills the prophecy that Satan can only be defeated by losing a piece of his body.

With his horn gone, Satan loses his full strength and is banished back to hell. The horn itself becomes Tenacious D’s new prized possession, which they convert into a bong. The film ends with JB and KG relaxing in their apartment, smoking from the horn-bong, and deciding to keep writing music together.

Are There Post-Credits Scenes?

No official post-credits scene exists. However, during the credits, there are bloopers, alternate takes, and comedic footage that feel like an extension of the film. Fans who stick around get more laughs, but no new plot material.

Type of Movie

The film is a musical stoner comedy with elements of fantasy and rock-and-roll parody. It blends absurdist humor with elaborate rock sequences, making it a cult favorite among music fans.

Cast

• Jack Black as JB (Jables)
• Kyle Gass as KG (Kage)
• Dave Grohl as Satan
• Ben Stiller as Guitar Center Guy
• Tim Robbins as The Stranger
• Meat Loaf as JB’s father
• Ronnie James Dio as himself

Film Music and Composer

The soundtrack is integral to the movie and was created by Tenacious D themselves. The original songs—particularly Kickapoo, Beelzeboss, and Master Exploder—became fan favorites. The score was handled by Andrew Gross, but the heavy lifting is Tenacious D’s music.

Filming Locations

The film was primarily shot in Los Angeles, California, making use of real rock landmarks and iconic LA backdrops. The Venice Beach boardwalk plays a central role, symbolizing JB’s entry into the “real world” of music culture. The Rock and Roll History Museum was a constructed set, inspired by Hard Rock Café–style aesthetics.

Awards and Nominations

The movie didn’t snag any major awards but became a cult classic post-release. Its soundtrack, however, earned recognition among fans as one of the funniest rock albums of the 2000s.

Behind the Scenes Insights

• Jack Black and Kyle Gass had been performing as Tenacious D since the mid-1990s; this movie was their passion project.
• Dave Grohl (Foo Fighters, ex-Nirvana) played Satan for free, being a longtime friend and supporter of Tenacious D.
• Ronnie James Dio’s cameo was filmed in just one day, but it’s considered one of the film’s most iconic moments.
• Jack Black has mentioned in interviews that many scenes were improvised, especially the band’s banter.

Inspirations and References

The movie is heavily inspired by:

• The mythology of rock and roll, with nods to Led Zeppelin, Black Sabbath, and KISS.
• Stoner comedies like Cheech & Chong.
• Classic rock epics and the idea of the “deal with the Devil” trope.

Alternate Endings and Deleted Scenes

Several deleted scenes were included in the DVD release. One involved extended banter between JB and KG while stoned, and another added more detail to their road trip. No known alternate ending was ever filmed, as the rock-off finale was always the intended climax.

Book Adaptations and Differences

There is no direct book adaptation. However, the movie draws heavily from Tenacious D’s HBO television series, where the duo often encountered absurd scenarios while pursuing rock greatness.

Memorable Scenes and Quotes

Key Scenes

• JB’s escape from home after singing “Kickapoo” with Meat Loaf and Dio.
• The Venice Beach meeting of JB and KG.
• The heist at the Rock and Roll History Museum.
• The climactic rock-off with Satan.

Iconic Quotes

• JB: “We are but men… ROCK!”
• Satan: “I am complete!”
• Dio: “You’ve got to go my son, you’ve got the power of rock inside you!”

Easter Eggs and Hidden Details

• Dio’s poster in JB’s bedroom foreshadows his cameo.
• Satan’s design was partially based on classic heavy metal album covers.
• The name “Tenacious D” itself comes from a basketball term (“tenacious defense”).

Trivia

• The Pick of Destiny prop was inspired by real guitar picks Jack Black used to carry.
• Meat Loaf and Dio had never sung in a movie together before this cameo.
• Though a box office flop, the film’s DVD release skyrocketed in sales, making it a cult comedy classic.

Why Watch?

If you love rock music, absurd humor, and stoner comedies, this film is for you. It’s ridiculous, loud, self-aware, and packed with music that will make you laugh as much as it makes you headbang.

Director’s Other Movies

• Sarah Silverman: Jesus Is Magic (2005)
• Multiple music videos for Tenacious D and other bands

Recommended Films for Fans

• School of Rock (2003)
• Wayne’s World (1992)
• Bill & Ted’s Excellent Adventure (1989)
• This Is Spinal Tap (1984)
• Airheads (1994)