Behind the Scenes of the 'SNL' Revolution: Unpacking the Truth of Jason Reitman's 'Saturday Night'
Jason Reitman's 'Saturday Night' is a film that takes us back in time, to the 1970s, when a group of young comedians and writers dared to revolutionize television with the first-ever episode of 'Saturday Night Live.' The movie is a dramatization of the chaotic 90 minutes leading up to the show's premiere, featuring an ensemble cast, including Gabriel LaBelle as Lorne Michaels. But how much of this film is based on real events, and what does it reveal about the making of this iconic show?
According to Reitman, the film is "about a group of people trying to totally revolutionize TV in 90 minutes." The story is told in real-time, offering a fly-on-the-wall perspective on the tense and chaotic moments leading up to the show's debut. But 'Saturday Night' is more than just a nostalgic trip down memory lane; it's also a behind-the-scenes look at the creative process, showcasing the chaos and magic of live television.
The Real Stories Behind the Film
Reitman and co-writer Gil Kenan drew inspiration from interviews with the original 'Saturday Night Live' cast and crew members. The film features a number of true stories, including the infamous llama that appeared on the show's first episode, and a set that caught on fire during rehearsals. These anecdotes offer a glimpse into the high-pressure environment of live television, where anything can happen, and the cast and crew must think on their feet.
However, the film also takes some creative liberties, dramatizing certain events for the sake of storytelling. While it's impossible to separate fact from fiction entirely, the film's overall narrative is grounded in reality, capturing the spirit of the original 'Saturday Night Live' cast and crew's rebellious and innovative approach to comedy.
A Stand-Alone Masterpiece
Dan Aykroyd, one of the original 'Saturday Night Live' cast members, has given the film his seal of approval, calling it a "stand-alone masterpiece." Aykroyd, who is played by Dylan O'Brien in the film, praised the movie for its "perfect window into the creative process at its highest level." O'Brien's portrayal of Aykroyd has been met with critical acclaim, with many praising his spot-on impression of the legendary comedian.
More than Just a Comedy
Despite its comedic subject matter, 'Saturday Night' is more than just a laugh-out-loud comedy. The film reveals a tense and high-pressure environment, where the cast and crew must navigate last-minute changes, technical issues, and personal conflicts. Reitman has said that the film is more akin to a thriller, showcasing the behind-the-scenes drama that went into creating this iconic show.
Overall, 'Saturday Night' is a must-see for fans of 'Saturday Night Live' and comedy enthusiasts in general. With its behind-the-scenes look at the making of this iconic show, and its ensemble cast, this film offers a unique glimpse into the world of live television, and the talented individuals who dared to revolutionize it.