The movie formerly known as SNL 1975 has gotten a new title—and an official release date.
The film, directed by Jason Reitman, was first announced in May 2023. It recounts the behind-the-scenes story of the 90-minute lead-up to the very first episode of Saturday Night Live, which premiered on October 11, 1975. Appropriately, Sony has announced that the film—now titled Saturday Night—will make its debut on October 11, 2024.
The release date isn’t just significant for being the 49th anniversary of Saturday Night Live’s debut; it perfectly positions the movie for plenty of awards consideration, which is certainly something Reitman is familiar with. Since 2008, the 46-year-old has been nominated for four Oscars: Best Director for Juno in 2008 and Best Adapted Screenplay, Best Director, and Best Picture for Up in the Air in 2010.
Last week, film site World of Reel reported that Saturday Night has had a trio of test screenings in Los Angeles and New York City and that the response had been “fantastic” with a “big response” from audiences.
The site also cleared up some confusion about the film’s casting: In March, it was reported that Succession star Nicholas Braun had been cast as Jim Henson. But when films from the set emerged later, it was clear that Braun was playing comedian Andy Kaufman. According to World of Reel, Braun actually plays both roles (and was described as a “scene stealer”).
In addition to Braun, the rest of the cast is as impressive as it is enormous. Gabriel LaBelle has been receiving rave reviews as Lorne Michaels. Additional stars include Cooper Hoffman as Dick Ebersol, Rachel Sennott as Rosie Schuster, Dylan O’Brien as Dan Aykroyd, Ella Hunt as Gilda Radner, Cory Michael Smith as Chevy Chase, Emily Fairn as Laraine Newman, Matt Wood as John Belushi, Kim Matula as Jane Curtin, and Lamorne Morris as Garrett Morris.
Hollywood insiders have an inkling that the film could make its official debut at the Telluride Film Festival in August, the Toronto International Film Festival in September—or both.
