Late Night with the Devil: The 1970s Horror Hit Just Got a Stunning Steelbook Blu-ray Release
There’s a new twist on horror movies this year, and it’s called Late Night with the Devil. This film mixes late-night television with supernatural scares, all set during a Halloween episode in 1977. And now, fans have something extra to get excited about: a brand-new Steelbook Blu-ray release arrived on August 5. If you love horror with a retro vibe and a dash of TV nostalgia, this might be the movie for you.
- What’s new: The movie just got a Steelbook Blu-ray release.
- Plot basics: It’s about a late-night talk show host who tries to boost his ratings with a spooky Halloween special.
- Setting: The story unfolds almost entirely inside a TV studio in 1977.
- Cast highlights: David Dastmalchian leads the film with a strong performance.
- Special effects: The movie uses practical effects to capture the era’s style.
The Movie’s Unusual Approach
Late Night with the Devil is written and directed by Colin and Cameron Cairnes, the team behind 100 Bloody Acres. The film stands out by pretending to be a documentary about the infamous Halloween episode of a fictional talk show called Night Owls with Jack Delroy. This style keeps the story tight and focused, with almost everything happening inside the studio during one wild night.
The main character, Jack Delroy, is played by David Dastmalchian. He’s known for roles like Polka-Dot Man in The Suicide Squad, and here, he brings both charm and a hint of hidden pain to the role. The film’s opening quickly explains Delroy’s struggle: he’s been trying to beat Johnny Carson in the ratings for years. After a tragic loss, his show’s ratings drop, so he takes a risky chance on an occult-themed Halloween special.
A Spooky Lineup
The Halloween episode features a cast of unusual guests. There’s a psychic named Christou, a magician-turned-skeptic, and a parapsychologist who brings along a young girl believed to be possessed. The actress playing the girl, Ingrid Torelli, delivers a chilling performance—her character’s habit of staring directly into the camera is especially unsettling.
The show moves quickly, only pausing for “commercial breaks” that switch to black-and-white behind-the-scenes footage. As the horror escalates, every character’s true nature is revealed. For example, Gus, the show’s sidekick, starts off in a devil costume for laughs but soon finds himself genuinely frightened by what’s happening on stage.
Behind the Scenes Drama
There’s more than just supernatural scares. The movie also peeks behind the curtain of fame, hinting at rumors, personal drama, and the pressures of live TV. Some characters are accused of using the chaos for their own gain, while others just want the show to succeed—no matter the cost.
Classic Effects for a Classic Feel
One thing that really sets Late Night with the Devil apart is its use of practical effects. Everything looks and feels like it could have been made in 1977. From creepy lighting to grotesque moments (like a character pulling worms from his body), the film goes for authentic scares instead of relying on modern CGI.
For those who want to learn more about the end of late-night TV or the film’s cultural context, you can check out these articles: this piece on CBS and Stephen Colbert and another about the future of late-night comedy. If you’re interested in the new Blu-ray, here’s the official Amazon listing.
