Late night shows are a whole phenomenon on their own. A charismatic host; a lovable sidekick; an enthusiastic band; and so much more. They’re still very present today, but were even bigger back in the 70s. But what if something happened on the show that would shock a nation? Get ready for the most entertaining ride of the year (so far) as the Cairnes brothers (filmmakers behind the great “100 Bloody Acres”) brought “Late Night with the Devil” to Fantasia Festival to make its Canadian premiere.
Late Night with the Devil
Jack Delroy (David Dastmalchian; “The Dark Knight”, “The Suicide Squad”, “The Boogeyman”) hosts “Night Owls”, a popular late night television show of the 1970s that brings entertainment and warmth into American living rooms. The show got quite popular, indeed; just not “Johhny Carson”-popular, let’s say. After the untimely passing of his wife, Jack takes a small hiatus from the lights and cameras before making his return, but his star status, as well as his show’s viewership, are equally dwindling and fading by the day.
As an ultimate attempt to climb back towards the top of the late-night mountain, a special Halloween episode is prepared, including numerous occult-related guests. One of them will definitely catch the attention of the American audience. Problem is: that guest will also unleash Hell upon the studio.
Late Night with the Devil
“Late Night with the Devil” is presented in a sort of found footage tradition since the audience is watching this as if they were the “Night Owls” viewers who were witnessing the entirety of the Halloween episode, live on their television sets. When the show goes to a commercial break, however, black and white footage of “behind-the-scenes” clips are presented, revealing the true emotions and thoughts of those involved with the show.
This whole experience will have viewers of the Cairnes brothers’ film glued to their screen, putting themselves in the shoes and context of American citizens of the 70s as they witness the Halloween-themed “Night Owls”. The script, from beginning to end, is neatly sewn together with an ending that’ll have jaws on the floor (figuratively for the audience; literally for certain characters).
Everything people love about late-night shows is present, making it feel like an authentic experience. From the typical, cheesy humor (including the classic snare and cymbal punchline sound effects), the constant interaction with the in-studio crowd, the band taking the viewers out to a commercial break as well as bringing them back, and more; it’s all there. “Late Night with the Devil” will genuinely transport its audience into the living rooms of America, about 50 years ago.
Late Night with the Devil
David Dastmalchian is, simply and directly put, perfect in his portrayal of Jack Delroy. If viewers hadn’t already fallen in love with him in his countless other memorable roles and were meeting him for the first time in this film, then they’d genuinely believe that he was a seasoned late-night talk show host. The way he converses with his trusty sidekick; the way he looks into the camera; even the way he sends the show to a commercial break… He oozes with the charisma necessary for the job.
There is also an impressive amount of practical effects used for its violence and gore that will have the audience exclaim their astonishment after having slapped their own thighs from laugh-out-loud laughter, reminding them that they are viewing a horror movie. In a world riddled with disappointing CGI, it’s always refreshing and appreciated to witness carefully crafted effects that are sure to bewilder all who set eyes upon it.
Whenever it is made available to you, you must attempt to view the Cairnes Brothers’ latest project as it will make you laugh, it will creep you out, it will amaze you, and it might even strike a emotional cord. The incredible “Late Night with the Devil” receives the excellent score of 4.5 eyes out of 5 as it continues its rounds of festivals.
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— iHorror.com (@iHorrorNews) July 22, 2023