Featuring: David Dastmalchian, Laura Gordon, Ian Bliss, Fayssal Bazzi, Ingrid Torelli, Rhys Auteri
Genre: Horror
Directors: Cameron Cairnes, Colin Cairnes
In Cinemas: 19th March 2024
In 1977 a live television broadcast goes horribly wrong, unleashing evil into the nation’s living rooms
“Late Night with the Devil” offers a chilling and immersive experience through its unique found footage style, directed by the talented brothers Cameron and Colin Cairnes. Set within the backdrop of a fictional 1970s variety and late-night talk show, the film plunges viewers into a night of terror and suspense as the boundaries between reality and the occult blur. At the helm of this eerie tale is David Dastmalchian, who delivers a captivating performance as Jack Delroy, the charismatic host of “Night Owls with Jack Delroy.” Through his portrayal, Dastmalchian effortlessly captures the essence of a bygone era, infusing Delroy with a blend of charm and vulnerability that makes him a compelling protagonist. The film’s narrative unfolds during a live Halloween broadcast of Delroy’s show, where he interviews a parapsychologist, played convincingly by Laura Gordon, and the enigmatic subject of her recent book—a young teenager portrayed by Ingrid Torelli, who was the lone survivor of a Satanic church’s mass suicide. As the interview progresses, tensions escalate, and the sinister forces at play become increasingly palpable. One of the film’s strengths lies in its meticulous attention to detail, effectively recreating the atmosphere of a 1970s television studio. From the retro set design to the authentic costumes and props, every element contributes to the film’s immersive quality, drawing viewers deeper into its unnerving world. The found footage format lends itself well to the story, heightening the sense of immediacy and realism. As the chaos unfolds onscreen, the audience is thrust into the heart of the action, experiencing the terror alongside the characters.
This approach effectively amplifies the film’s suspense and keeps viewers on the edge of their seats until the very end. While the concept of a late-night talk show descending into chaos is not entirely novel, “Late Night with the Devil” injects new life into the genre with its supernatural twist. The filmmakers skillfully blend elements of horror, mystery, and psychological thriller, creating a multi-layered narrative that keeps audiences guessing until the final credits roll. Central to the film’s success is its strong ensemble cast, who deliver standout performances across the board. Dastmalchian’s portrayal of Delroy anchors the film, while Gordon and Torelli shine in their respective roles, adding depth and complexity to the story. The film’s pacing is another highlight, with tension steadily building throughout the runtime. From the eerie opening moments to the heart-pounding climax, “Late Night with the Devil” maintains a relentless sense of momentum, never allowing the audience a moment’s respite. In addition to its gripping narrative and strong performances, “Late Night with the Devil” also boasts impressive technical achievements. The film’s cinematography effectively captures the chaos unfolding onscreen, utilizing clever camera angles and lighting techniques to enhance the sense of unease. Furthermore, the film’s sound design plays a crucial role in creating atmosphere, with subtle cues and eerie soundscapes adding to the overall sense of dread.
Combined with a haunting musical score, the result is a truly immersive audio-visual experience that lingers long after the credits have rolled. However, “Late Night with the Devil” is not without its flaws. Some viewers may find the found footage format jarring or disorienting, while others may take issue with certain narrative choices or pacing issues. Additionally, the film’s reliance on familiar horror tropes may leave some audiences craving more originality. Despite these minor drawbacks, “Late Night with the Devil” ultimately succeeds as a gripping and atmospheric horror-thriller. With its compelling story, strong performances, and immersive presentation, the film offers a chilling glimpse into the dark side of late-night television. Fans of supernatural horror and found footage films alike are sure to find plenty to enjoy in this devilishly entertaining ride.
Overall: 7/10
Movie Reviewer
