Late Night with the Devil is a 2023 supernatural horror film directed by Colin and Cameron Cairnes.
The film stars David Dastmalchian as Jack Delroy, the host of a fictional late-night talk show called Night Owls, alongside Laura Gordon, Ian Bliss, and Fayssal Bazzi. Set during a live broadcast in 1977, the plot revolves around the show's attempt to boost ratings by featuring a young girl who is allegedly possessed. As the broadcast unfolds, the situation spirals out of control, unleashing malevolent forces into the viewers' living rooms.
The film incorporates elements of found footage and documentary filmmaking, creating a unique narrative style that reflects the charged atmosphere of late-night television during that era. The story explores themes of media influence, the nature of evil, and the consequences of seeking sensationalism in entertainment. The film's production was announced in February 2022, with filming taking place in Melbourne, Australia. The Cairnes brothers aimed to capture the dangerous allure of late-night TV and its intersection with supernatural horror.
Late Night with the Devil premiered at the South by Southwest Film Festival (SXSW) on March 10, 2023, and was released theatrically in the United States on March 22, 2024. The film has received positive reviews from critics, holding a 97% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes. It grossed approximately $12.7 million at the box office, indicating a successful reception among audiences. Critics have praised Dastmalchian's performance and the film's ability to recapture the essence of 1970s television horror without relying heavily on jump scares.
The film's unique premise and execution have resonated with horror fans, leading to discussions about its commentary on media and the supernatural. Late Night with the Devil has been recognized for its innovative approach to storytelling and its ability to blend horror with a nostalgic look at the television landscape of the past.