Late Night With The Devil

Late Night with the Devil, directed by Cameron and Colin Cairnes, is a cinematic success that blends satire, horror and comedy in a captivating tale set against the backdrop of a 1970s late-night TV show. With its mockumentary style and found-footage format, the film not only pays homage to the era it represents, but also innovatively explores the dark corners of ambition, celebrity and the supernatural. The film is a testament to the creative vision of the Cairnes brothers, and features a masterful performance by David Dastmalchian.

At the heart of the film is Jack Delroy (David Dastmalchian), the charismatic but desperate host of the late-night talk show Night Owls. David Dastmalchian's portrayal of Jake Delroy is pivotal to his career, capturing the essence of a man driven by a fear of obscurity and a relentless quest for fame. The actor's ability to navigate his character's complex emotional landscape - from charm and affability to vulnerability and madness - anchors the film and draws the audience into the unfolding drama.

The story cleverly uses the setting of a live TV show to introduce a group of characters who, though diverse, share a connection to the occult and the supernatural. Laura Gordon's portrayal of parapsychologist Dr. June Ross-Mitchell, Fayssal Bazzi's medium Christou and Ingrid Torelli's portrayal of the allegedly possessed Lilly are performances that enrich the film's texture and depth. Each character adds additional layers to the narrative, challenging Jack Delroy and propelling the story toward its inevitable, dark conclusion.

What sets Late Night with the Devil apart from conventional horror films is its inventive use of found-footage and mockumentary. The Cairnes brothers masterfully blend these elements to create a sense of authenticity and immediacy, transporting viewers back to the 1970s while retaining a contemporary edge that resonates with today's audience. Meticulous attention to detail, from period sets to costumes and dialogue, reinforces the immersive experience.

The horrific elements of Late Night with the Devil are both subtle and overt, with a gradual build-up of tension that culminates in a climactic finale. The Cairnes brothers deftly balance psychological horror with moments of visceral terror, using practical effects that evoke both nostalgia and dread. The exploration of themes such as the nature of celebrity, the exploitation inherent in the entertainment industry and the human fascination with the supernatural adds depth and complexity to the story.

Late Night with the Devil also excels in its pacing, balancing character development, humor and horror in a way that keeps the audience captivated from start to finish. The film's structure, which alternates between the live broadcast and behind-the-scenes footage, offers a dynamic, multi-faceted perspective on the unfolding events. This approach not only enhances the narrative, but also serves as a commentary on the performative nature of television and the blurred boundaries between reality and spectacle.

Late Night with the Devil is a remarkable film that stands out in the horror genre for its originality, captivating narrative and outstanding performances. The Cairnes brothers have created a work that is both an homage and a critique of the late-night TV format, while David Dastmalchian's portrayal of Jack Delroy is a real tour de force. This film should be seen by horror fans, those intrigued by the supernatural and anyone who appreciates innovative films that challenge and transcend genre boundaries. It's a chilling, challenging and ultimately unforgettable cinematic experience that reaffirms the power of storytelling and the enduring appeal of the macabre.

Late Night with the Devil
Written and directed by Colin Cairnes, Cameron Cairnes
Produced by Mat Govoni, Adam White, John Molloy, Roy Lee, Steven Schneider, Derek Dauchy
Starring David Dastmalchian, Laura Gordon, Ian Bliss, Fayssal Bazzi
Cinematography : Matthew Temple
Edited by Colin Cairnes, Cameron Cairnes
Music by Glenn Richards
Production companies: Image Nation Abu Dhabi, VicScreen, AGC Studios, Good Fiend Films, Future Pictures, Spooky Pictures
Distributed by Umbrella Entertainment, Maslow Entertainment, Ahi Films (Australia)
Release dates : 10 March 2023 (SXSW), 22 March 2024 (United States)
Running time : 93 minutes

Viewed: March 13, 2024 (press screener)

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