Directors: Cameron Cairnes, Colin Cairnes
Writers: Colin Cairnes, Cameron Cairnes
Stars: David Dastmalchian, Laura Gordon, Ian Bliss

“Late Night with the Devil,” directed by Cameron Cairnes and Colin Cairnes, is a horror film that cleverly intertwines the eerie and the enigmatic with a setting that’s both nostalgic and chilling. Starring David Dastmalchian, Laura Gordon, Ian Bliss, Fayssal Bazzi, Ingrid Torelli, Rhys Auteri, and Georgina Haig, the film takes place in the 1970s during a live late-night talk show that goes horribly wrong. This review delves into the production, writing, acting, cast, and overall execution of the film.

The production of “Late Night with the Devil” is meticulously crafted to immerse the audience in the 1970s. The set design by Robert Webb replicates a vintage late-night talk show studio with remarkable attention to detail, from the furniture and props to the grainy television effects. Cinematographer Matt Templeton utilizes a combination of period-appropriate lighting and camera techniques to evoke a sense of authenticity and unease. The film’s visual aesthetic, enhanced by its retro costumes and makeup, successfully transports viewers back to an era that feels both familiar and unsettling.

The screenplay, written by Cameron Cairnes and Colin Cairnes, is a masterclass in building suspense and psychological horror. The plot revolves around Jack Delroy (David Dastmalchian), a late-night talk show host who invites a series of guests for a Halloween special, only for the broadcast to spiral into chaos as supernatural occurrences unfold. The writing is sharp and engaging, with dialogue that captures the era’s tone while driving the narrative forward. The screenplay cleverly balances moments of levity with escalating tension, making the audience question the boundaries between reality and the supernatural. The narrative structure, which unfolds in real-time, adds a layer of immediacy and urgency to the film.

The performances in “Late Night with the Devil” are pivotal to the film’s success. David Dastmalchian delivers a standout performance as Jack Delroy, capturing the charisma and underlying desperation of a man whose career is on the line. His portrayal is both commanding and vulnerable, making the character’s descent into horror compelling and believable. Laura Gordon, as the skeptical yet concerned producer, provides a grounded counterpoint to Delroy’s escalating paranoia. Ian Bliss and Fayssal Bazzi, as the show’s guests, bring depth and authenticity to their roles, each contributing to the unfolding horror in unique ways. Ingrid Torelli’s performance as a child medium is particularly haunting, her eerie presence adding a significant chill factor to the film. Rhys Auteri and Georgina Haig round out the cast with solid supporting performances that enhance the film’s atmosphere of dread.

The casting choices for “Late Night with the Devil” are inspired, with each actor fitting their role seamlessly. David Dastmalchian, known for his ability to portray complex characters, is perfectly cast as the talk show host whose world unravels on live television. Laura Gordon and Ian Bliss bring a sense of realism to their roles, grounding the film’s more fantastical elements. Fayssal Bazzi and Ingrid Torelli add layers of intrigue and horror with their nuanced performances. The ensemble cast works cohesively to build and maintain the film’s tension, ensuring that each character’s arc contributes meaningfully to the overall narrative.

The execution of “Late Night with the Devil” is exemplary, with directors Cameron and Colin Cairnes demonstrating a keen understanding of the horror genre. Their direction ensures that the film maintains a steady build-up of tension, using pacing and timing to maximize the impact of each scare. The real-time unfolding of events creates an immersive experience, with the audience feeling as if they are part of the live broadcast. The editing by Sean Lahiff is tight and effective, maintaining the film’s brisk pace while allowing for moments of character development and suspense. The sound design and score by Cornel Wilczek enhance the film’s eerie atmosphere, using subtle audio cues and music to heighten the sense of dread.

“Late Night with the Devil” is a masterfully crafted horror film that stands out for its unique premise, strong performances, and meticulous production design. The film successfully blends psychological horror with supernatural elements, creating a narrative that is both engaging and terrifying. David Dastmalchian’s compelling performance, combined with the directors’ expert handling of suspense and atmosphere, makes this film a must-watch for horror enthusiasts. The film not only pays homage to the 1970s era but also reinvigorates the horror genre with its innovative storytelling and execution. “Late Night with the Devil” is a chilling reminder of the power of live television and the thin veil between reality and the supernatural.