Peter Bart: Is ‘Saturday Night’ Movie Ready For Theatrical Primetime?

*Saturday Night*, a film about the iconic *Saturday Night Live*, struggles to garner acclaim despite its legendary legacy. Critics describe it as an affectionate homage yet lacking depth. The film opens in a competitive landscape, reflecting the challenges facing the film industry today and questioning whether it can rise to theatrical prominence.

Once upon a time, 50 years ago, an enigmatic venture called Saturday Night Live sprang from the creative mind of Lorne Michaels, as nervous NBC executives pondered its worth. Fast forward to this week, we find the story continuing—with the launch of Saturday Night, a film chronicling the legacy of this groundbreaking show, though ironically, Michaels himself admits he hasn’t seen it yet. Will audiences mirror that indifference? Audiences were given a rare glimpse of the film via a limited release on just 21 screens, prompting critics to respond with a mix of enthusiasm and critique. While Saturday Night Live has undeniably shifted the sands of comedy and culture, both the box office and critical reception for the film reflect a lukewarm glow rather than the fiery acclaim that surround the show’s 50th anniversary celebrations. Critics have acknowledged the show’s eternal allure, calling it both a delight and a chaotic whirlwind, particularly its biting political parodies that feel just as poignant as they did decades ago. Yet, as for the film itself, opinions diverge. Robert Abele of the Los Angeles Times describes it as an “affectionate yet hollow homage,” while Manohla Dargis from the New York Times observes that the narrative flows continuously when it perhaps should be more erratic, erupting with passion. The film predominantly explores the behind-the-scenes dynamics of late-night television rather than focusing solely on the artists driving the show forward, revealing tensions with network executives who questioned Michaels’ unconventional approach. This scandalous upheaval in the TV landscape shows the delicate balance between humor and the business side of entertainment—something Joan Rivers, another late-night pioneer, once remarked upon sharply. With a backdrop of mixed expectations for this Sony-distributed movie amidst a downturn in box office fortunes and fierce competition from new releases, the film’s fate hangs in the balance amid grim projections. Ironically, while SNL played a key role in redefining television culture, its cinematic counterpart opens during a time when the film industry itself is crying out for a revival, begging for a touch of improvisation to recapture its former glory.

*Saturday Night Live*, created by Lorne Michaels, premiered in 1975 and became an influential institution in comedy and television. The recent launch of a film titled *Saturday Night*, which parallels the original show’s journey, brings forth nostalgia and scrutiny from critics and audiences alike. As the film struggles to find its footing in a crowded cinematic landscape, it draws attention to broader themes of creativity, cultural impact, and the challenges faced by media in adapting to changing times.

In essence, the film *Saturday Night* serves as both a celebration and a critique of *SNL*’s enduring legacy, revealing the tensions between creative innovation and the cutthroat business of entertainment. Its mixed reviews highlight a cultural moment ripe for exploration as traditional media seeks relevance in an ever-evolving landscape. As audiences and critics ponder whether this film is truly ready for its big theatrical debut, it mirrors the delicate balance of innovation and nostalgia within the industry itself.

Original Source: deadline.com