Reviewed by Seth Metoyer, MoreHorrorMovies.com, Social Media: @morehorror, In a year full of horror gems, Late Night with The Devil stands out as my favorite of 2024 (that I've seen so far). Combining a rich script with exceptional performances, it accomplishes what few indie horror films manage—great dialogue that's elevated by an impressive cast. The Cairnes brothers, as directors, create a captivating single-location horror film that never loses steam, a true feat considering the entire film is set within a 70s TV studio.
The plot is centered around Jack Delroy’s late-night talk show, Night Owls, on Halloween night in the 1970s. Desperate for ratings after personal tragedy, Delroy (played with brilliance by David Dastmalchian) invites a bizarre array of guests for a live special, including a parapsychologist, a skeptic magician, and a survivor of a mass cult suicide. As the night progresses, what begins as an unconventional talk show devolves into sheer chaos, leaving viewers questioning what is real and what is supernatural. The genius of this film lies in how it toys with the audience, mixing possession horror with the unpredictability of live television.
David Dastmalchian absolutely excels as Jack Delroy, the smooth-talking host whose veneer of control crumbles as the supernatural events unravel. He brings humor, depth, and at times, a haunting sense of dread to the role. You feel his torment as the night spirals out of control, and his performance makes the film’s climax hit that much harder.
Ian Bliss also shines as Carmichael Haig, the pompous skeptic who you love to hate. His smugness and arrogance are deliciously irritating, making his eventual comeuppance deeply satisfying. On the lighter side, Fayssal Bazzi’s portrayal of Christou, the eccentric psychic, brings a quirky energy to the film. He’s almost unintentionally funny, a perfect foil to the mounting tension.
Ingrid Torelli as Lilly D’Abo is simply outstanding. Her transformation throughout the film is chilling, and the direct eye contact she makes with the camera adds an unsettling layer, making viewers feel complicit in the unfolding terror. Her performance adds a lot to the movie’s creeping dread, and she's a true highlight. However, Laura Gordon’s portrayal of parapsychologist June Ross fell a bit flat for me. It wasn’t a dealbreaker, but her performance lacked the depth and intensity of the rest of the cast.
Visually, Late Night with The Devil nails the 70s aesthetic with its grainy look, warm color palette, and impeccable set design, reminiscent of vintage late-night TV shows. The Cairnes brothers’ attention to detail really shines here, and despite the film’s single-location setup, they manage to keep it engaging from start to finish. The mix of practical effects and CGI is another win. While some purists might grumble about the digital effects, I thought they were used wisely, particularly in the film's climactic moments, where they helped elevate the tension. Shoutout to the visual effects team who crafted a finale that’s both terrifying and visually impressive.
As someone who grew up in the 70s/80s and vividly remembers the “Satanic Panic” era, seeing that period referenced in the film felt like a wicked nod to the past. There’s even a sly connection to real-world secret societies like Bohemian Grove, subtly woven into the storyline. These little historical touches add a layer of authenticity and nostalgia that horror fans will appreciate.
On repeated viewings, it’s been a blast spotting hidden “ghosts” scattered around the set—another fun nod to the haunted house genre. This film isn't just a one-time watch; it has the layers and intrigue to keep you coming back, making it a worthy addition to my annual Halloween viewing list.
In the end, Late Night with The Devil isn’t just another found-footage horror flick; it’s a clever, tightly executed homage to both 70s TV and the horror genre itself. It’s a film that revels in its retro style while offering something fresh and sinister. Whether it’s the brilliant performances, the suspenseful atmosphere, or the demonic twist, this film will linger long after the final broadcast fades to black.
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