Columbia Pictures Announces Early Release Date for ‘Saturday Night’
Columbia Pictures, the producers of ‘Saturday Night’, a biopic that explores the behind-the-scenes moments leading up to the first-ever broadcast of ‘Saturday Night Live’ in 1975, have announced that the film will be released two weeks ahead of its original schedule.
New Release Dates
The film, directed by Jason Reitman, was initially set to be released on October 11, but it will now hit theaters in New York, Los Angeles, and Toronto on September 27, followed by a limited release on October 4 and a wide release on October 11.
Positive Reviews and Test Screenings
The announcement comes after a series of positive reviews from prominent film critics. ‘Variety’ praised the film, saying that Reitman "isn’t the first to take audiences behind the scenes of ‘SNL’ and its ilk – ’30 Rock’, ‘Studio 60’, and ‘The Larry Sanders Show’ all demystified that world – but he does it so convincingly." The publication also described the film as a potential Oscar-winner, thanks to its superb ensemble, sizzling script, and expert craftsmanship.
A test screening attendee, shared by ‘World of Reel’, praised the film, saying: "Fantastic. Big response from the audience… it’s also hard to fully pinpoint a bonafide standout within the ensemble because it’s all over the place with the way it’s constantly moving and bouncing around to different characters (not a bad thing though, I thought it kept things fresh and avoided lingering/losing momentum)."
‘Rolling Stone’ and ‘Hollywood Reporter’ Reviews
‘Rolling Stone’ called the film "extremely potent", noting that while it was sometimes a "sloppy and overly reverent tribute", it was also a "part hilarious 1970s gross-out romp, and an all-out assault to recreate the adrenaline rush of producing that inaugural ‘SNL’."
However, ‘The Hollywood Reporter’ had a more mixed review, saying: "We go into the movie with high expectations, but only some of them are realized…. Those who remember the excitement of ‘SNL”s early years will want to catch up with this revolutionary moment in TV history, but younger viewers may not find enough here to tickle or tantalize."
Who Will Enjoy ‘Saturday Night’?
The film appears to be a must-watch for fans of ‘SNL’ and its history, as well as those who are interested in behind-the-scenes stories of TV production. The cast, which includes Gabriel LaBelle as Lorne Michaels, Dylan O’Brien as Dan Aykroyd, Cory Michael Smith as Chevy Chase, Rachel Sennott as Rosie Shuster, and Lamorne Morris as Garrett Morris, is also likely to attract viewers who are fans of the original cast.
Original ‘Saturday Night Live’ Cast: Where Are They Now?
Gallery Credit: Dennis Perkins
The original ‘Saturday Night Live’ cast, including Dan Aykroyd, Chevy Chase, Gilda Radner, and John Belushi, were the pioneers of the iconic show. Since its inception in 1975, the cast has gone on to pursue various projects in film and television. Some notable developments include:
- Dan Aykroyd went on to star in the iconic film ‘Ghostbusters’ and its sequels, as well as appearing in numerous other films and TV shows.
- Chevy Chase has had a successful film career, starring in ‘National Lampoon’s Vacation’ and its sequels, as well as appearing in various other films and TV shows.
- Gilda Radner passed away in 1989, but her legacy lives on through her iconic characters and her influence on the show.
- John Belushi passed away in 1982, but his impact on ‘Saturday Night Live’ is still felt today.
Conclusion
‘Saturday Night’ is a highly anticipated biopic that promises to deliver an exciting and revealing look at the behind-the-scenes moments leading up to the first-ever broadcast of ‘Saturday Night Live’. With its talented cast, superb script, and expert craftsmanship, the film is likely to be a must-watch for fans of the show and its history. The early release date will give viewers a chance to experience the film sooner rather than later, and its positive reviews suggest that it will be a memorable and enjoyable ride.
FAQs
Q: When is ‘Saturday Night’ being released?
A: The film will be released on September 27 in New York, Los Angeles, and Toronto, and on October 4 in limited release, with a wide release on October 11.
Q: What is the film about?
A: ‘Saturday Night’ is a biopic that explores the behind-the-scenes moments leading up to the first-ever broadcast of ‘Saturday Night Live’ in 1975.
Q: Who is in the cast?
A: The cast includes Gabriel LaBelle as Lorne Michaels, Dylan O’Brien as Dan Aykroyd, Cory Michael Smith as Chevy Chase, Rachel Sennott as Rosie Shuster, and Lamorne Morris as Garrett Morris.
Q: What are the reviews saying?
A: The film has received positive reviews from prominent critics, with ‘Variety’ describing it as a potential Oscar-winner and ‘Rolling Stone’ calling it "extremely potent".
Q: Who should watch ‘Saturday Night’?
A: Fans of ‘Saturday Night Live’ and its history, as well as those interested in behind-the-scenes stories of TV production, are likely to enjoy the film.