Lights, Camera, Action: Nashville Welcomes a Deep Dive into SNL’s Origins with ‘Saturday Night’
Nashville has always been known for its vibrant music scene, but this past month, it turned its attention to the world of comedy with a stirring documentary titled Saturday Night. Directed by the talented Jason Reitman, this film takes audiences back to the launch night of the iconic Saturday Night Live, which premiered on October 11, 1975. During a lively Q&A session after the screening at the Nashville Film Festival, Reitman shared intriguing insights about the film and the adrenaline-fueled chaos behind the scenes of SNL.
A Wild Comparison
Reitman set the tone with a fascinating metaphor, likening the feeling the SNL cast and crew experience each week to “a level of adrenaline typically reserved for fighter pilots and heroin addicts.” That’s quite a statement! He went on to compare Saturday Night to several works, including the German film Victoria and even the classic Ferris Bueller’s Day Off. It’s clear that this is not your run-of-the-mill documentary.
Real-Time Magic
Saturday Night unfolds over the course of just 90 real-time minutes, providing an exhilarating ride as it follows Lorne Michaels, the creator and producer of SNL, portrayed by Gabriel LaBelle. Although LaBelle might not mirror Michaels’ physical appearance in every detail, he captures the essence of the man grappling with both youthful arrogance and the fear of failure. It’s a masterful performance that holds the audience’s attention throughout.
A Star-Studded Cast
The cast features a plethora of talent, each bringing a unique flair to their roles. Lamorne Morris plays Garrett Morris and personifies the existential struggles of a seasoned actor grappling with a new wave of comedic talent. Ella Hunt‘s portrayal of Gilda Radner radiates warmth, making her a standout. Welsh actor Matthew Rhys takes on the role of George Carlin, exuding charisma, while Nicholas Braun doubles as Andy Kaufman and Jim Henson, adding a humorous touch that leaves audiences in stitches.
The Stories Behind the Laughter
As we venture deeper into the film, it becomes evident that a whirlwind of events—technical glitches, political maneuverings, and sheer happenstance—play a pivotal role in shaping the night. The film does not shy away from the chaos that was part and parcel of that infamous first night. Think back: Did legendary comedian Milton Berle, played brilliantly by J.K. Simmons, overshadow the crew? Did Dan Aykroyd really chase after every woman around? Did Michaels’ co-producer, Neil Levy, get too high and trap himself away? The answer is an enthusiastic yes! Although the events might be exaggerated for the sake of storytelling, they shine a light on what it felt like to be in that environment.
Footage Worth Watching
In his Nashville Q&A, Reitman shared that he had toyed with the idea of filming Saturday Night as one continuous shot. Although that didn’t materialize, the film stands strong without it and highlights Reitman’s ability to handle complex stories and ensemble casts after his success with the recent Ghostbusters films. Dramatic, chaotic, and downright thrilling, this film captures the essence of SNL—both the challenges and the joy that comes with creating iconic comedy.
50 Years of SNL
As we now celebrate SNL’s 50th season, it’s fascinating to reflect on the world swirling around Lorne Michaels and his crew during that first electrifying night. With cameos from recognizable figures like Willem Dafoe as David Tebet, the film reminds us that on that fateful night, everyone was just as curious as the viewers about what this “mutant show-biz baby” was truly going to be.
Ultimately, Saturday Night is not just a glimpse into a singular event; it’s a celebration of the spirited chaos that has kept audiences laughing for decades. As the screen fades to black, it’s hard not to feel a sense of camaraderie with the characters and the story, and to wonder what will become of SNL as it ventures into the future.
