The article delves into the behind-the-scenes drama and debauchery that defined the early years of the iconic sketch comedy show, "Saturday Night Live." It explores the film's depiction of the show's tumultuous beginnings, the larger-than-life personalities involved, and the challenges faced by the creative team in bringing the first episode to life.

Lifting the Veil on the Legendary SNL Backstage

Embracing the Chaos and Excess of the SNL Backstage

The article highlights the film's unapologetic portrayal of the rampant drug use and debauchery that characterized the backstage of "Saturday Night Live" in its early days. From Lorne Michaels (Gabriel LaBelle) offering George Carlin more cocaine to Chevy Chase (Cory Michael Smith) engaging in a power struggle with "Mr. Television" Milton Berle, the film doesn't shy away from the excesses that fueled the show's creative energy. The article praises the director, Jason Reitman, for capturing the raw, unfiltered nature of the backstage environment, which was essential to the show's legendary status.

Navigating the Challenges of Ensemble Storytelling

The article acknowledges the film's ambitious attempt to weave together the stories of numerous iconic figures, from Lorne Michaels to John Belushi (Matt Wood). While the article notes that the "name-dropping" can at times feel like a parody, it also recognizes the inherent difficulty in portraying such a large ensemble cast within the confines of a single film. The article suggests that the director could have handled the transitions and character arcs with a more streamlined approach, but ultimately, the performances are what elevate the film.

The Standout Performance of Dylan O'Brien as John Belushi

The article singles out the performance of Dylan O'Brien as John Belushi as a standout in the film. Drawing on the author's personal connection to Belushi's work, the article praises O'Brien's ability to capture the comedian's unique blend of raw talent and self-destructive tendencies. The article suggests that in a better world, Belushi could have gone on to a remarkable second act as a dramatic actor, and O'Brien's portrayal hints at that unrealized potential.

The Redemptive Ending and the Film's Deeper Themes

The article highlights the film's third act as the saving grace, where the narrative ties up the various storylines in a satisfying and uplifting manner. The article notes that the film's thesis, the "impossibility of managing inflated egos with cursed existences," is perfectly encapsulated in the scene where Belushi insists on attempting a triple axel, even at the risk of his own demise. This moment, the article argues, is the catalyst for the film's conquering ending, where the audience is left cheering for the "plucky little underdog show" that would go on to become a television institution.The article concludes by suggesting that the film's apparent shallowness is a clever ruse, and that the "deep end" is just a few steps away, revealing the film's true depth and complexity. The critic's score of 7.2 is a testament to the film's ability to subvert expectations and deliver a nuanced exploration of the legendary backstage of "Saturday Night Live."