Rating 7/10
Breathing new life into the mockumentary, the found footage phenomenon, and demonic possession is no easy task. Late Night with the Devil manages to do all three in one nifty little film. All three creatively combine in this fictionalized episode of a nighttime TV talk show on Halloween 1977.
David Dastmalchian is Jack Delroy, the host of Night Owls, which is in direct competition with The Tonight Show starring Johnny Carson. The anxious sidekick, Gus (Rhys Auteri), is his Ed McMahon. The program is uniquely his creation but mirrors real-world rivalries of that era, evoking the spirit of legendary names like Dick Cavett or Merv Griffin. My mind immediately went to actor Alan Thicke and the palpable desperation of his ill-fated Thicke of the Night.
Written, directed, and edited by Colin and Cameron Cairnes (100 Bloody Acres), these brothers from Australia have really done their homework. Night Owls feels like a legitimate talk show from the 1970s. To boost ratings on Halloween during Sweeps Week, Jack decides to do a special occult-themed episode. Special guests include self-proclaimed psychic and medium Christou (think of Uri Geller), portrayed by Fayssal Bazzi, and skeptic and former magician Carmichael Haig (look up James Randi), played by Ian Bliss.
We finally meet parapsychologist author June Ross-Mitchell (Laura Gordon) with her patient Lilly D’Abo (Ingrid Torelli). These last two individuals could have been inspired by the discredited 1980 book Michelle Remembers, which nevertheless became a bestseller. Lilly is the sole survivor of a mass suicide committed by a Satanic church that worshipped an evil entity. These last two final guests kick the developments into high gear, providing the film with a shocking climax that will leave you spellbound.
The special effects add to the mood, but it wouldn’t work without the believability of the star. David Dastmalchian delivers a compelling performance as Jack Delroy. A detailed backstory of the man is slowly revealed throughout the narrative, giving his character added depth. Sometimes, the most probable emcees are the ones prepared to go to any lengths for a shot at the limelight. His portrayal of a celebrity willing to do anything for ratings has an appealing mix of charm and melancholy. He is credible as a real host.
This document unfolds like an unearthed reel from the archives of late-night television history. With nods to real-life TV personalities and events, the Cairnes brothers recreate the ambiance of a 1970s talk show replete with intriguing guests. An electrifying finale still feels faithful to period detail. The judicious blend of practical and digital illisions lends an eerie authenticity to the satanic elements, ensuring genuine shivers. So dim the lights, tune in, and prepare to be entertained—it’s a devil of a good time.
Late Night With The Devil has been streaming on Shudder and AMC+ since April 19.
04-26-2024
8 Responses
I really enjoyed this one up until the end. I just felt it went over the top with the special effects. That said, it’s terrifically unsettling for the most part and David Dastmalchian is really good as the TV host.
Yeah, I would not have cast him in this role initially, but David Dastmalchian gave the role a depth I wasn’t expecting.
I enjoyed reading this. You have the right balance of plot and analysis. Too many film reviews are just a plot summary but you give lots of great insights so we can appreciate the film in a new light. I haven’t seen Late Night with the Devil, but it interests me.
Thank you for the kind words. Late Night with the Devil is worth checking out if you’re intrigued by horror. It offers a unique take on demonic possession. If you get the chance to watch it soon, I would love to hear your thoughts.
Very well done. Loved the nostalgic effects. Acting was good, silly and eerie. I felt like I was watching a real talk show, complete with behind the scenes footage. 3 1/2 ⭐️
I’m glad you enjoyed the nostalgic effects.
Of interest to trivia freaks only: Christou suggests Kreskin.
Oh yes, I remember Uri Geller but Kreskin is another example.