The new film Saturday Night honors the hilarious chaos behind the first SNL broadcast and the impact of Jason Reitman’s vision. Here is what people thought after seeing it this past weekend.
The clock was ticking on October 11th 1975. Everyone in Studio 8H in Rockefeller Plaza strove towards one goal, the show must go on– or it may never go on at all. Jason Reitman creates an imaginative take on one of comedy’s most iconic nights, the first broadcast of Saturday Night Live. At the heart of this chaotic spectacle is Lorne Michaels (Gabriel LaBelle), an ambitious 30-year-old striving to juggle comedians, writers, expectations of executives, and his own nerves about the show’s launch. If Saturday Night as it was originally titled, finds success, it could revolutionize television itself.
saturday night genuinely might be a pinnacle piece of understanding snl as it was and i genuinely couldn’t have imagined it done better. it’s so high paced and energetic that you start to feel all the stress and excitement they feel. perfect 70’s movie @SatNightMovie i love u
— yary ☠️ (@arakilesbian) October 11, 2024
Reitman expertly conveys the chaotic and downright hilarious atmosphere of the 90 minutes leading up to the first live broadcast of SNL. Even though we know the outcome and that history is being made, you’ll find yourself on the edge of your seat, feeling the tension as everything comes together. Just as Lorne Michaels once harnessed that magic with the original SNL cast, Jason Reitman assembles an outstanding ensemble that maintains a vibrant energy throughout the film.
Saturday Night: 92
This film is electric from start to finish. A dynamic script keeps you on your toes, an ensemble that is brilliant from top to bottom and director that makes you feel like you’re there. You know the story ends, but the build up is just as entertaining. People… pic.twitter.com/2dJu4M3dTZ
— Jack Lautaret (@JackLautaret) October 11, 2024
#SaturdayNightMovie was a blast and a half! 90 minutes of pure chaos and you could feel it. the cast delivered on all ends, ESPECIALLY gabriel labelle. dude’s a fucking star.
also ass slapping. so. much. ass slapping. pic.twitter.com/7URxVvato9
— jada⁷ (@marveIzuko) October 12, 2024
The “cast of unknowns” are portraying Saturday Night Live’s then “cast of unknowns.” Everyone that was casted in Saturday Night successfully captures the look, sound, and essence of the TV legends they’re portraying.
One is a picture of Chevy Chase in the pilot episode of #SaturdayNightLive, one is a picture of Corey Michael Smith in the #SaturdayNightMovie. When they talk about perfect casting, this is what they mean. @mister_CMS pic.twitter.com/EO0b2xZZKf
— Shamindri De Sayrah (@Shami1412) October 9, 2024
Saturday Night offers a glimpse into a pivotal moment in television history, skillfully blending humor and tension as it chronicles the hours leading up to the show’s debut. Jason Reitman’s direction and the talented ensemble bring to life the challenges faced by Lorne Michaels and his team, making their journey feel both relatable and exhilarating. As the cast of rising stars embodies the original “Not Ready for Prime Time Players,” viewers are transported back to an era when the potential for comedy was boundless.
SATURDAY NIGHT was so damn good! It did not disappoint and had my theater laughing until the end. All the intensity of live production and theater kids, while also letting major scenes breathe. Kudos @JasonReitman & @gilkenan on making my favorite movie of the year. pic.twitter.com/NrwFQCOKqa
— Keenan (@Horror_Guy) October 11, 2024
