One of the year’s biggest and most highly anticipated horror films, Late Night with the Devil, has landed on Shudder. The movie’s advertising has gone hard, often a sign that a film isn’t really that good. But is it everything they said it would be? Let’s explore that in this review.
The Story
The film takes us back to 1977, on a seemingly innocent Halloween night. Jack Delroy (played by the captivating David Dastmalchian), a late-night talk show host known for his program “Night Owls,” decides to make his Halloween special unforgettable. Little does he know his decision will unleash unimaginable horror.
Jack welcomes several guests before introducing a parapsychologist and the subject of her latest book – a young teenager, the sole survivor of a mass suicide in a Satanic church. As the interview begins, evil is unleashed, transforming the lighthearted atmosphere into a terrifying spectacle.
The Cast
David Dastmalchian is fantastic. He is charismatic as the host, but it is not hard to see his character struggling as the subject of his dead wife keeps being brought up. This leaves him depressed and brokenhearted. He emotes emotion so well, from heartache to horror, with just his expressions. Laura Gordon plays her role as the parapsychologist well, bringing empathy and love to the story. Ingrid Torelli, who plays the role of the possessed girl Lilly, does a fantastic job walking the line between her character and the demon. Each cast member put their hearts into their roles, giving emotional and intense performances that made the film authentic.
A Fresh Tale
The way the film was presented made me forget for a moment that I was watching a movie. Its presentation as a Halloween TV special is fresh and unique, two things the genre desperately needs. Thanks to writers and directors Colin Cairnes and Cameron Cairnes, it was well-written, executed, and clever. The story pulls you in and keeps you on the edge of your seat as you watch the special go from a show to a horrifying conclusion. It’s brilliant. It’s time to build suspense as the movie’s events escalate, leading to real tension.
The Special Effects
While many of the special effects are subtle, as the episode builds, so do they. I love that they did not go overboard on Lily’s makeup. You can see a difference when her demon takes over, but her look is not overwhelming. And when it does come time for big effects, they bring it hard and heavy.
The Verdict
Late Night with the Devil is a fantastic, fright-filled film that makes you feel like you’re really watching a TV special from the 1970s. It’s unique and fresh, and the way it builds tension and horror is impressive. I can’t think of a single thing to complain about. It truly is a great movie that leaves you feeling unsettled long after the credits run. It’s easily one of, if not the best, horror films of the year. Here’s the good news: you don’t have to wait long to watch it yourself. It’s now streaming on Shudder.
