Directed by: Cameron Cairnes & Colin Cairnes
Distributed by: IFC Films
Written by Nick McCann
90/100
As far as my YouTube algorithm is concerned, analog horror has been back on the rise lately. Unlike found footage classics like “Paranormal Activity” and “The Blair Witch Project,” these videos and projects heighten the viewing experience by planting themselves where consumer analog media would be more available and in the neighborhood to capture mysterious circumstances. Shudder’s latest hit appears to step into that ring, offering plenty of creativity without much stumbling.
Presented as the lost master tape of a 1970s late-night talk show, “Late Night with the Devil” immediately locks you into its corner. Interspersing mockumentary-style behind-the-scenes footage between presentation blocks gives it an immersive and propulsive feel while providing a good sense of the time’s social destabilization. It has an enjoyable structure with an underscore of dry humor that pokes fun at broadcast entertainment and the terrors of the era. With just the right amount left for interpretation, this is a tight-knit spookfest on a constant upward build.
The cast feels quite believable as they play off each other in a pseudo-real-time session. Each personality is well realized, showing their stance and giving a firm look at the spooky nature that unfolds. David Dastmalchian charmingly shines as show host Jack Delroy, a man who will do whatever it takes to make it to the top of late-night television ratings no matter the dastardly cost. Ian Bliss is also a delight, playing a pompous skeptic who actively wants to wreck the fun. As is Ingrid Torelli, leaving her mark in the great pantheon of scary child performances.
The production design goes a long way to realizing the decade it captures on a small scale. The TV set itself becomes a character within the film at a point, replicating what you’d most likely see on cable TV in its layout and color palette. Watching it succumb to the supernatural through occasional electrical interference and distortions in the picture gives a strong sense of the escalating threat. On that note, it’s shot quite convincingly, and editing has the flow of its subject matter down pat. All of it leads to an ultra-bloody chaotic spectacle complete with messy practical effects and menacing makeup. Where it shows some cracks are some digital effects that briefly break the illusion.
If it’s a spooky ride you want, this movie will give you some good chills. “Late Night with the Devil” is rich with atmosphere, satire, and creative fun through and through to the point where blemishes in the production or uncertain story beats can be easily glossed over. Cozy up, tune in, and let evil into your home.
“Late Night with the Devil” Trailer
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