After the popularity of analog horror waned, it's funny to see elements of this once popular style from the internet on a movie for the big screens. Although it does not part ways with conventional narrative traditions, "Late Night with the Devil" delivers on some analog horror particularities that are noteworthy (the retro style; the use of glitches and intermissions; and putting reality into question - but I won't go into details to avoid spoilers). Obviously, it also borrows from 80's horror, as it's inevitable to incite comparisons with movies like "Videodrome" (1983) and "Ghostbusters" (1984) - but I'll leave it up to your imagination as to why, or, alternatively, you could just go and watch "Late Night with the Devil". I am, after all, writing this review to encourage you to watch it!
Besides that, as I mentioned, the film sticks to a regular story but places all bets on its gran finale, just like a magic trick, which, on more than one occasion, is the subject of the discussion between the characters, thanks to the skeptic guest that puts into question every (possibly) supernatural occurrence on the show. Aiming to expose any trickery that might swindle us viewers, the skeptic is our ally, playing the role of reason that often eludes horror movies (going as far as saying that "the viewer at home" is extremely suggestible - and isn't he right!). As such, the movie also exposes itself for all its trickery, but, very intelligently, leans into it, making a true spectacle of its horror (as I'm sure was intended, considering its theme of sensationalistic TV). Consequently, "Late Night with the Devil" is not exactly horrifying, but it does deliver on the thrill of its spectacle - with a whole lot of tension!
Besides that, as I mentioned, the film sticks to a regular story but places all bets on its gran finale, just like a magic trick, which, on more than one occasion, is the subject of the discussion between the characters, thanks to the skeptic guest that puts into question every (possibly) supernatural occurrence on the show. Aiming to expose any trickery that might swindle us viewers, the skeptic is our ally, playing the role of reason that often eludes horror movies (going as far as saying that "the viewer at home" is extremely suggestible - and isn't he right!). As such, the movie also exposes itself for all its trickery, but, very intelligently, leans into it, making a true spectacle of its horror (as I'm sure was intended, considering its theme of sensationalistic TV). Consequently, "Late Night with the Devil" is not exactly horrifying, but it does deliver on the thrill of its spectacle - with a whole lot of tension!