Table of Contents
In ‘Saturday Night’ (2024), we follow the chaotic and exhilarating 90 minutes leading up to the debut episode of what is now known as ‘Saturday Night Live’ (SNL) on October 11, 1975—a night that would forever change American television and comedy scene. The film introduces us to TV legend Lorne Michaels (Gabriel LaBelle) and the groundbreaking ensemble cast of comedic gold he assembled, including Chevy Chase (Cory Michael Smith), Dan Aykroyd (Dylan O’Brien), Gilda Radner (Ella Hunt), Laraine Newman (Emily Fairn), Garrett Morris (Lamorne Morris), John Belushi (Matt Wood), and Jane Curtin (Kim Matula).
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The film
Jason Reitman’s 2024 film is a masterclass in character-driven storytelling, offering a fresh perspective on the personal and creative dynamics behind the scenes of live television. With its sharp focus on the intricate relationships that forged comedic history, ‘Saturday Night’ expertly blends humor and tension, making it an engaging exploration of one of the most pivotal moments in TV history.
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The ensemble
The performances in ‘Saturday Night’ are a standout, with the ensemble cast delivering authentic portrayals that pay respectful homage to the real-life legends they represent. LaBelle is particularly compelling as Lorne Michaels, capturing the barely controlled chaos of a man under immense pressure. His portrayal will have viewers feeling the same stress and anxiety as Michaels, with moments that practically demand you rub your temples or fidget along to release the anxiety and tension.
Supporting actors like Cooper Hoffman, Andrew Barth Feldman, and Rachel Sennott add depth to the chaotic environment behind the scenes of a live show. Their performances heightened the sense of disorder and anticipation leading up to the ‘SNL’ debut, with the film succeeding in creating the same nerve-wracking atmosphere as watching an episode of FX’s ‘The Bear’. For viewers prone to anxiety, the intensity is palpable and almost overwhelming at times.
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Michael Smith, O’Brien, Morris, and Hunt bring much-needed comic relief, offering levity to balance the film’s high-stakes tension. Despite the stress their characters face, the joy and passion for creating something meaningful shines through. This is the beauty of art—finding purpose even in the midst of chaos—and the cast captures this with sincerity and humor.
Cameos from industry and SNL’s renowned veterans like Willem Dafoe and J.K. Simmons are a delightful surprise, adding extra layers of levity and charm to the film. Their brief appearances further enhance the sense of legacy and history within the world of live television.
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While individual performances are strong, what truly elevates ‘Saturday Night’ is the chemistry among the cast. The natural rapport between the actors brings authenticity to their interactions, making their relationships feel genuine. Under Reitman’s careful direction, each actor is given the space to shine, and together, they convey both the humor and stress of navigating high-pressure moments. The result is a rich, emotionally resonant experience that leaves a lasting impression.
The visual storytelling
The cinematography and production design in Reitman’s ‘Saturday Night’ are essential in establishing the film’s tone and enhancing its emotional impact. From the very first minute, the audience is transported to the bustling 1970s New York City setting, specifically the vibrant world of NBC Radio City’s television studios. The visual authenticity instantly creates a sense of urgency, reflecting the high-stakes nature of live television. The behind-the-scenes chaos unfolds organically, and every shot captures the palpable tension leading up to SNL’s historic debut. What truly enhances the immersive experience is the film’s seamless integration of various departments working in real time—whether it’s the frantic energy of the art department, the meticulous efforts of costume designers, or the precision of hair and makeup teams. By showcasing the intricate collaboration required to pull off a live show, the film not only highlights the stress behind the scenes but also offers a window into the artistry involved. This attention to detail in production design and the fast paced and continuous takes make the world of ‘Saturday Night’ feel authentic, drawing viewers deeper into the story and heightening their connection to the characters’ experiences.
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The comedic timing (or lack thereof)
While the fast pace of ‘Saturday Night’ effectively captures the urgency and high-stakes tension behind the scenes that comes with the making of a television program, it sometimes hinders the impact of the humor. At times, the jokes feel too rushed, not given enough room to breathe or land as they should. Considering this is a film centered around ‘Saturday Night Live’—a legendary comedy show that has defined American humor for nearly half a century now—the occasional flat joke is disappointing. The rapid-fire pacing, while true to the chaotic nature of live television, sometimes sacrifices comedic timing.
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That said, ‘Saturday Night’ still manages to honor the spirit of ‘SNL’ through its frenetic energy, clever writing, and rich character dynamics. Even when some jokes fall short, the film’s overall tone—fast-paced, chaotic, and humor-driven—does justice to the legendary show’s essence. It successfully captures the wild ride of creating live comedy, showing both the triumphs and the stumbles that come with it.
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The final thoughts
In conclusion, ‘Saturday Night’ is a fitting tribute to the legacy of ‘Saturday Night Live’, capturing the thrilling chaos and creative energy that fueled its groundbreaking debut. Jason Reitman masterfully balances humor and tension, drawing viewers into the nerve-wracking world of live television while showcasing the artistry and collaboration that went into shaping one of the most iconic comedy shows in history. With strong performances, authentic production design, and a fast-paced narrative, ‘Saturday Night’ is both a love letter to the show’s history and a compelling look at the frenetic process of making live comedy.
Cast: Gabriel LaBelle, Rachel Sennott, Cory Michael Smith, Ella Hunt, Dylan O’Brien, Emily Fairn, Matt Wood, Lamorne Morris, Kim Matula, Kaia Gerber, Jon Batiste, Willem Dafoe, J.K. Simmons
Cinematography: Eric Steelberg | Director: Jason Reitman | Writer: Gil Kenan, Jason Reitman | Producers: Jason Blumenfeld, Gil Kenan, Erica Mills, JoAnn Perritano, Jason Reitman, Peter Rice
By Julia Maia
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