Late Night with the Devil

Late Night with the Devil left an indelible mark on me and stands out as one of the highlights in my 2024 cinematic journey. As someone fascinated by the intricacies of live TV production, I was astounded by its innovative storytelling approach. While I have minor quibbles about the technical feasibility of certain aspects of this live television broadcast — especially when considering the era depicted — the sheer audacity of what was displayed on-screen was captivating. The intermixing of this “live” recording of a national television broadcast with black and white documentary-esque footage from behind the scenes feels pulled right out of my imagination.

Though the technical ingenuity of the film is its standout feature, the performances it boasts are nothing to scoff at either. David Dastmalchian's portrayal of the talk show host Jack Delroy was nothing short of mesmerizing. His performance lent credence to the narrative, anchoring the film with his exceptional talent. Dastmalchian portrays Delroy with a refreshing authenticity, navigating the turmoil his character finds himself in with genuine trepidation. His portrayal leaves an indelible mark, defined by unwavering resolve and remarkable depth. Supporting his brilliant lead turn is an ensemble of great performances across the board. However, it's Ingrid Torelli who truly shines, masterfully transitioning from off-putting eeriness to chilling intensity in the blink of an eye. Her unwavering commitment significantly contributes to the riveting success of the third act.

While the film's ending was conceptually sound and contained a poignant message, its execution left something to be desired. I was so captivated every step of the way that this giant swing ultimately was a miss in the moment. Though the final reveal justified the narrative turn, the transition was poorly handled, momentarily disrupting the immersive experience cultivated throughout the film.

Now, let’s talk about the devil in the room: the incorporation of AI in the film. On this subject, I find myself torn. While I recognize its potential to enhance certain elements of filmmaking (such as its utilization for location scouting on Dune: Part Two), I am also cognizant of the potential risks it poses to employment and creativity. However, in the case of Late Night with the Devil, the utilization of AI was relatively minimal. While the use of AI could have easily been substituted by human efforts, its inclusion subtly complemented the storyline, making it a worthwhile addition in my eyes. 

In summary, Late Night with the Devil provided me with a truly exceptional theatrical experience, captivating me with its gripping narrative and compelling visuals. I wholeheartedly recommend this must-watch underseen gem. 

8/10