Streaming Alert: Saturday Night, the Biopic on SNL's Debut, Now Available—With a Catch!
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Two months following its theatrical release, Saturday Night has now become available on OTT platforms. Directed by Jason Reitman, this biographical comedy-drama is currently streaming on Prime Video and ZEE5 (OTTplay Premium), although it is offered for rent. The film takes audiences back to the 1975 debut of Saturday Night, which was later renamed Saturday Night Live. Featuring a diverse ensemble cast, the film showcases various members of the Saturday Night cast and crew, with Gabriel LaBelle prominently portraying Lorne Michaels, the show's creator and producer. The cast also includes notable actors such as J. K. Simmons, Finn Wolfhard, Cooper Hoffman, Andrew Barth Feldman, Kaia Gerber, Tommy Dewey, Willem Dafoe, Matthew Rhys, and Dylan O'Brien, along with Rachel Sennott, Cory Michael Smith, Ella Hunt, Matt Wood, Lamorne Morris, and Emily Fairn.
Premise of Saturday Night
In Saturday Night, the narrative is grounded in the actual occurrences that took place during the ninety minutes leading up to the premiere of Saturday Night Live. This portrayal is filled with chaos, humour, and the allure of a revolution that was on the verge of not materializing, illustrating the moments just before the audience is greeted with those legendary words...
Check out the trailer below:
Critics lauded LaBelle's exceptional portrayal in the film, which garnered him a nomination for Best Actor in a Motion Picture—Musical or Comedy at the 82nd Golden Globe Awards. However, despite an investment of $25 million to $30 million, the film has only generated $9.8 million in revenue.
Jason Reitman on directing Saturday Night
In a previous interview with In Session Film, Reitman discussed his decision to direct Saturday Night. The filmmaker expressed his intention to create an experience that allows viewers to connect with the cast and crew. His goal was to provide an immersive experience. During the inaugural night of Saturday Night Live, the audience felt as though they were part of the event. The introduction of each character was approached in an unconventional manner. One would not have anticipated this from watching the film. There was an expectation that someone would initiate the process. On that night, 30 individuals were scheduled to gather, yet none of them were aware of their identities. This was knowledge they would have to acquire through their experiences. Ultimately, the dynamic soundtrack, fluid camera movements, and real-time action would envelop them in the experience, making them feel as if they were genuinely throwing bricks.
The challenge of crafting the screenplay posed a significant hurdle. This aspect proved to be the most difficult part of the filmmaking process; however, the most rewarding experience has been observing audiences engage with the story, fully aware of the impending events—the sinking of the Titanic or the debut of the play. Despite this knowledge, they are unable to resist the exhilarating anticipation that accompanies a live performance. This presented a considerable challenge for the narrative, yet the resulting satisfaction was immensely gratifying.
