Jason Reitman's latest film, Saturday Night, has launched into theaters with a bang, opening in just five locations but grossing a notable $265,000 over its debut weekend. With a strong $53,000 per-theater average (PTA), this makes it the second-best limited release of the year, right behind Kinds of Kindness, which had a $75,000 PTA back in June. For cinephiles, these numbers signal that Saturday Night is resonating with audiences, even if the critics remain somewhat divided.
Set 90 minutes before the very first episode of Saturday Night Live aired on October 11, 1975, Reitman's film takes viewers into the chaotic world of young comedians and writers trying to bring the now-iconic show to life. The cast includes rising stars like Cooper Hoffman (Licorice Pizza) and Gabriel LaBelle (The Fabelmans), alongside well-known names such as Nicholas Braun (Succession), Willem Dafoe, and J.K. Simmons. This ensemble cast delivers electric performances, playing off each other in a film packed with witty dialogue and expertly choreographed long takes.
Critics have compared Saturday Night to Alejandro Iñárritu's Birdman — another movie that captures the frantic energy of performers behind the scenes. Reitman, much like Iñárritu, leans heavily into long, unbroken shots that heighten the tension and humor, creating a vibrant, fast-paced atmosphere. While it's undeniably entertaining, some critics argue that the film lacks depth, leaving it a little short in emotional substance. With a 61 on Metacritic, it sits in a bit of a limbo, but with such a strong box office debut, it remains in the conversation for Oscar nominations, especially in a year that has seen fewer breakout films.
In short, Saturday Night is a fun, immersive tribute to one of television's most beloved institutions. Whether it ends up being a serious contender this awards season or simply a must-watch for comedy fans, one thing's for sure: Reitman's Saturday Night has made an impression.
