A new documentary about the early days of “Saturday Night Live” received rave reviews at its world premiere screening. Directed by Jason Reitman, “Saturday Night” offers an inside look at the tense moments before the first episode aired in 1975. The film had its debut at the Telluride Film Festival in Colorado over the weekend.
Reitman, known for directing movies like “Juno” and “Up in the Air,” introduced the documentary himself. In his opening remarks, he set the stage for what would become one of the festival’s most exciting screenings. Adding more star power, comedy legend Bill Murray also appeared unexpectedly. Murray, a cast member in the show’s second season, joined Reitman to address the crowd before the film started.
Jason Reitman introduces the world premiere of ‘Saturday Night’ at the #TellurideFilmFestival, a movie that hilariously celebrates the first broadcast of ‘Saturday Night Live’ on October 11, 1975 pic.twitter.com/OWYiRqtGX2
— Deadline (@DEADLINE) September 1, 2024
Attendees included major players in television and movies, such as Sony executive Sanford Panitch. The documentary’s co-writer Gil Kenan was also present. Critics and viewers alike praised “Saturday Night” for its rare glimpse behind the scenes. By focusing on the pressure-filled 90 minutes before launch, Reitman aims to capture the mix of tension, creativity and effort that launched the long-running show.
Bill Murray joins Jason Reitman on stage at the #TellurideFilmFestival to present the new ‘Saturday Night’ movie, that hilariously celebrates the first broadcast of #SNL on October 11, 1975 pic.twitter.com/NmznID1EOf
— Deadline (@DEADLINE) September 1, 2024
Early reviews suggest the documentary will appeal to both long-time “Saturday Night Live” fans and those wanting to learn more about breakthrough television. With its balance of nostalgia, humor and drama, “Saturday Night” stood out among the strong lineup of films at Telluride this year. The enthusiastic reception bodes well as the film begins its festival run and looks toward wider release. Audiences are eager to see how Reitman’s film pays tribute to the comedy institution “SNL” has become.
