Indie Horror Hit ‘Late Night with the Devil’ Delivers Authenticity in Retro Aesthetic

Indie horror hit ‘Late Night with the Devil’ brings a unique spin to the screen with its real-time Halloween episode of a fictional ’70s talk show, captivating audiences with its descent into madness. Australian filmmakers Cameron and Colin Cairnes crafted this innovative film inspired by the after-dark buzz of vintage talk shows that held an air of excitement and unpredictability.

The production of ‘Late Night with the Devil’ was a meticulous endeavor, with the Cairnes brothers, along with their team, recreating a period-appropriate U.S. talk show set in Melbourne. Otello Stolfo, the production designer, drew inspiration from late-night icons like Johnny Carson and Dick Cavett, focusing on intricate details to ensure an authentic retro atmosphere filled with browns and oranges.

Matthew Temple, the director of photography, contributed his expertise, drawing from his experience shooting with pedestal cameras in the late ’80s to capture the essence of television from the ’70s. The crew embraced a new style of shooting to maintain the authenticity, delving into old-fashioned lighting and equipment to recreate the bygone era.

While the production design and camera work set the nostalgic tone, the visual effects team, spearheaded by Adam White, worked magic on screen with limited resources. Despite a tight VFX budget of $150,000, the team executed nearly 300 visual effects, showcasing creativity and resourcefulness to bring the story to life.

‘Late Night with the Devil’ thrives on delivering an engaging and immersive experience to audiences, blending retro aesthetics and chilling narrative elements to create a compelling viewing experience. Ingrid Torelli, David Dastmalchian, and the talented cast bring the story to life, elevating the film’s impact among horror enthusiasts and cinema aficionados.