My wife and I attended an advanced screening of Late Night with the Devil (2023) at Alamo Drafthouse last night. The plot revolves around a late-night talk show host struggling to surpass Johnny Carson's ratings despite various attempts, even involving his terminally ill wife joining the show. The host, known for his involvement in a cult, mysteriously disappears for a month after his wife's death, only to return with even lower ratings. With one last chance to save his show, he decides to take drastic measures.
Co-directed by Cameron and Colin Cairnes (Scary Campaign), the film features a stellar cast including David Dastmalchian (The Suicide Squad), Laura Gordon (Undertow), Ian Bliss (The Matrix Reloaded), Fayssal Bazzi (Shantaram), Ingrid Torelli (Bloom), and Rhys Auteri (A Good Deed).
Late Night with the Devil is a phenomenal movie, with a magnificent concept and flawless execution. Every aspect, from sets to costumes to performances, contributes to an authentic atmosphere. While some elements may be over-the-top, they serve to captivate the audience. The film maintains a dark, mysterious tone through smart subplots and unpredictable twists, culminating in a satisfying conclusion that ties everything together to perfection.
The acting is outstanding across the board, with special mention to child actor Ingrid Torelli, who delivers a standout performance. Every character's facial expressions and reactions are compelling, drawing the audience into every scene. The kills are gruesome and perfectly executed. There's a tremendous use of worms that brought a smile to my face. And as for the ending-it's impactful and unforgettable.
In summary, Late Night with the Devil is one of the most unique and original horror films in recent memory. My wife and I both enjoyed it immensely, with her rating it a 10/10 and me an 8/10, averaging out to a solid 9/10. It's a must-see for horror enthusiasts.
