Saturday Night: The BRWC Review by Daniel Rester
A Legacy of Laughter
Many comedic legends have gained fame through Saturday Night Live, the iconic American sketch comedy show that began as NBC’s Saturday Night in 1975 and continues to entertain audiences today. With 50 seasons and nearly 1,000 episodes under its belt, the show has become a cultural touchstone. However, its legacy was not always assured. Lorne Michaels, the show’s creator, had to establish a cutting-edge vision that would resonate with viewers and redefine late-night television.
The Film’s Premise
Jason Reitman’s film Saturday Night unfolds in nearly real-time, capturing the frenetic 90 minutes leading up to the first live episode of the show on October 11, 1975. Gabriel LaBelle takes on the role of Michaels, who is depicted as a whirlwind of activity, darting between rooms and the studio, trying to impose some semblance of order amidst the chaos of the creative process. The film immerses viewers in the high-stakes environment of live television, where a million things are happening simultaneously, and Michaels must wrangle the cast and crew to showcase their talents.
A Manic Cinematic Style
Reitman employs a manic style in Saturday Night, characterized by overlapping dialogue, whip pans, tracking shots, and snappy editing. Drawing inspiration from Alejandro González Iñárritu’s Birdman (2014), the film captures the anxiety and excitement of preparing for a live performance. However, while Birdman delves into deeper themes and complex character arcs, Reitman and co-writer Gil Kenan’s screenplay remains more surface-level. This isn’t to say that the script is lacking; rather, it juggles numerous characters and situations without fully exploring their depths. Despite this, the film remains entertaining and believable, successfully conveying the chaotic energy of the night.
A Star-Studded Cast
The ensemble cast is impressive, with LaBelle anchoring the film with a likable performance that keeps the narrative grounded, even as the surrounding chaos threatens to overwhelm him. Cory Michael Smith shines as Chevy Chase, perfectly embodying Chase’s signature wit and arrogance. Dylan O’Brien delivers a strong performance as Dan Aykroyd, while Tommy Dewey and Matthew Rhys stand out as Michael O’Donoghue and George Carlin, respectively.
However, the female cast members, including Rachel Sennott as Rosie Shuster and Ella Hunt as Gilda Radner, unfortunately, have fewer standout moments. Matt Wood’s portrayal of John Belushi sometimes feels over-the-top, particularly during his more explosive scenes. While Willem Dafoe and J.K. Simmons make appearances as David Tebet and Milton Berle, respectively, their star power occasionally overshadows the younger cast members, who are otherwise immersing themselves in their roles.
Character Development and Emotional Moments
The film’s real-time structure and focus on Michaels mean that many characters don’t receive the development they deserve. While the cast performs admirably, Reitman and Kenan could have benefited from expanding the script to allow for deeper exploration of the myriad characters. Thankfully, the film does take a moment to slow down and delve into key relationships, providing the audience with a chance to catch their breath. One of the film’s most impactful scenes occurs during a heated argument in a stairwell between Michaels and his boss, Dick Ebersol (Cooper Hoffman). This moment adds emotional weight to the narrative, arriving at a crucial juncture in the story.
Cinematic Execution
While Reitman occasionally stumbles—such as with the inclusion of a seemingly random drug trip scene—he generally navigates the film’s fast pace and chaotic drama with skill. Cinematographer Eric Steelberg’s use of 16 mm photography adds a textured, nostalgic quality to the film, enhancing its authenticity. The meticulous editing by Nathan Orloff and Shane Reid, combined with Jon Batiste’s jazzy score, contributes to the film’s propulsive rhythm, keeping viewers engaged throughout.
Appeal to Audiences
Saturday Night manages to cater to both diehard SNL fans and those less familiar with the show. While certain aspects may feel exhausting or even annoying, the film primarily delivers a thrilling and humorous experience. It serves as a fitting tribute to the comedic legends who have shaped the landscape of American television, showcasing a young and talented cast who honor their predecessors while carving out their own identities in the world of comedy.
Rating: 8/10