Saturday Night | TIFF 2024 | Review by: Stefano Bove

Saturday Night Live has been a staple in American network television for the better part of 50 years but just because it is beloved by many now, does not mean it had a smooth start. In fact, it was the complete opposite of whatever smooth is and at the time, a live comedy show was completely revolutionary. 

Saturday Night is a unique approach to the biopic genre that attempts to take place in real time over the 90- minutes just before The show goes live for the very first episode. The result is a chaotic mess of unorganized artistry and the merging of comedic minds from the era including; Dan Aykroyd, Chevy Chase, John Belushi, Garrett Morris, Andy Kaufman and so many more. It is also poetic that these legendary comedians are played by so many young rising actors and comedians. Some are so spot on with their portrayals, its fighting.

 The pacing of the film is incredibly fast as the cast hurries to prepare for its premiere. This endless cycle of set changes and arguments that created a preparation that seems both organized and improvised all at the same time which is incredibly difficult to do in a completely scripted format without looking too messy. 

Jason Reitman creates a perfect tribute to the history of SNL with a perfect group of young talent, a gorgeous 70mm visual and a heart-pounding score by Jon Batiste. This film is a testament to creativity that is typically halted by bureaucracy and paper-pushers who only care about money. Pushing against all odds strictly for the art even when everyone around you is hoping you fail. 

4/5

Review by: Stefano Bove