Stream It or Skip It?

Horror-comedy Late Night with the Devil (now available for streaming on Shudder and AMC+) had a successful debut as an IFC Films release, earning $2.8 million in its opening weekend. Notably, it made $666,666 on that Sunday, prompting Variety to comment on the unusual numbers. The film features David Dastmalchian as the lead, portraying a 1970s late-night talk show host desperate for ratings, leading to a chaotic Halloween broadcast. Directors Cameron and Colin Cairnes took a bold approach by casting Dastmalchian in this role, making for an intriguing premise.

The story follows Jack Delroy (Dastmalchian) and his late-night talk show Night Owls, which aimed to rival Johnny Carson in 1971. Despite initial success, by 1977, Delroy faced challenges such as declining ratings and personal tragedies. The film revolves around a fateful live broadcast on Halloween in 1977, showcasing bizarre guests and supernatural occurrences that shock the nation.

The film blends elements of horror and satire, creating a unique viewing experience reminiscent of The Exorcist meets The Morton Downey Jr. Show. Dastmalchian delivers a compelling performance as the troubled TV host, balancing vulnerability and confidence in a challenging role. The film’s narrative explores themes of false idols and media manipulation in a darkly comedic manner, satirizing the entertainment industry of the era.

While the film may benefit from tighter storytelling and character development, the directors maintain a consistent tone, supported by impressive practical effects and engaging performances. Late Night with the Devil offers a fresh take on horror-comedy, blending humor with supernatural elements for an entertaining and thought-provoking viewing experience.