The live television event that shocked a nation!
The live television event that shocked a nation!
Directors Cameron and Colin Cairnes’ supernatural horror comedy Late Night with the Devil reels you in with suspense and keeps you intrigued throughout the 90-minute runtime. Campy and satanic, the film rouses viewers with its authentic ‘70s aesthetic, riveting performances and horrific elements. Still, while there is plenty to praise about this documentary-style feature, it’s questionable whether the well-paced build-up pays off in the end.
Framed as a found footage genre piece, the plot follows host Jack Delroy (David Dastmalchian) who strives to surpass Johnny Carson’s ratings with his late-night talk show Night Owls with Jack Delroy. Despite various efforts, like inviting his terminally ill wife on as a guest host, the show continues to struggle. During a special Halloween episode in 1977, Delroy, known for his unpredictability and involvement in a cult, takes drastic measures by attempting to conjure a demon within a young girl Lilly (Ingrid Torelli) live on the air. Madness ensues from there.
Late Night with the Devil captivates its audience right from the start with an opening narration that sets the tone for the film. The realistic premise is explored through recorded tapes of a late-night variety show that soon unfolds into something far more sinister. The narrative gets increasingly frightening with each guest being interviewed. Sure, some segments may seem over the top, but they’re formed to hook the audience in and make them feel as if they’re experiencing the show from the comfort of their living room. Late Night with the Devil could have benefited from a slightly longer runtime. The conjuring portions and the ending feel rushed after spending ample time constructing the story. Even still, the film smoothly blends horror and comedy, serving laugh-out-loud moments while maintaining a dark, mysterious mood through the entrancing subplots and twists.
The roles in Late Night with the Devil feel perfectly cast beginning with David Dastmalchian’s Jack Delroy. He puts on a charismatic performance as the television presenter and you get a sense that eerie secrets hide behind his dark eyes. Dastmalchian effortlessly mesmerizes the audience as the plot develops from a run-of-the-mill talk show to a horrendous live event. Ingrid Torelli also deserves accolades for her brief but effective performance as Lilly, a young girl possessed by a demon she refers to as Mr. Wriggles. Her parts of the show are by far the creepiest; the film would be even more successful had her character been further examined. Each character’s expressions and reactions feel natural and help draw the audience into every scene.
All aspects of Late Night with the Devil, from the sets to the costume design, contribute to its sterling atmosphere. It’s evident how much research went into delivering a genuine 1970s aesthetic for this indie film. Shot in Melbourne, Australia, filmmakers opted for old-school practical special effects, including puppetry, along with some digital visual effects. The directors also admitted to using AI-generated art for just three images. From the production design, vibrant colors and grainy effect, attention to detail proves to be one of the film’s key selling points.
With a fresh concept and flawless execution, Late Night with the Devil is a gripping experience that thrives despite budget limitations. While the third act could have been fleshed out, the film is a hypnotic piece of cinema that stays with you long after viewing. It’s a charming (and alarming) experience, sure to be one of the most impactful horror films of the year.
