Few names in comedy history resonate as loudly as Chevy Chase. From his breakout on Saturday Night Live (SNL) to a film career that solidified his status as a household name, Chase has long been an iconic yet polarizing figure. In Jason Reitman’s Saturday Night, a dramatized look at the hours leading up to the premiere episode of SNL, Chase is portrayed by Cory Michael Smith. And true to his reputation, Chase’s response to the film—and his portrayal—has been characteristically blunt.
Appearing on Dana Carvey and David Spade’s Fly on the Wall podcast, Reitman shared a biting critique delivered by Chevy Chase himself. After viewing the film, Chase allegedly patted Reitman on the shoulder and declared, “Well, you should be embarrassed.” This cutting remark gains further poignancy knowing Chase’s personal connection to Reitman, having known him since childhood. The interaction encapsulates the mercurial nature of Chase’s personality—a mix of unfiltered honesty and an almost theatrical disregard for decorum.
Reitman, reflecting on the moment, revealed a mix of emotions. On one hand, he acknowledged the comedy inherent in receiving such a quintessentially “Chevy Chase moment.” On the other, he expressed frustration, particularly given the effort he’d invested in capturing the complex humanity behind Chase’s public persona. “I just spent two years of my life recreating this moment and trying to capture Chevy perfectly,” Reitman lamented, “and…none of that sh*t played.”
In stark contrast to Chase’s reaction, other original cast members of SNL offered glowing praise. Dan Aykroyd, portrayed by Dylan O’Brien in the film, called it “engaging” and “funny,” while Laraine Newman (played by Emily Fairn) described it as “entertaining.” These differing responses highlight the subjective nature of revisiting and dramatizing history, especially when dealing with living legends.
Cory Michael Smith’s portrayal of Chevy Chase has garnered significant acclaim, with critics applauding his ability to channel the comedian’s wit, arrogance, and vulnerability. However, Chase’s harsh judgment raises an important question: Can anyone truly capture the essence of such an enigmatic figure, especially one known for his relentless criticism of others?
Personal Impressions: As someone who’s followed both Chase’s career and Reitman’s work, this story is a fascinating intersection of art, legacy, and ego. Reitman’s approach to Saturday Night seems deeply rooted in respect for the material and the larger-than-life figures it portrays. Yet Chase’s reaction—while seemingly dismissive—also underscores the difficulty of depicting a person whose personality is as infamous as their talent. Smith’s performance, by all accounts, succeeds in presenting a layered portrayal, even if the real Chase remains unconvinced. Ultimately, the film’s true success lies in its ability to ignite conversation about comedy, history, and the price of genius.
What do you think about Chevy Chase’s reaction to Jason Reitman’s Saturday Night? Does it reflect a larger issue with biographical films, or is it a testament to Chase’s unique personality? Share your thoughts below!
