Jason Reitman Explores SNL’s Debut Night in New Film

The new film “Saturday Night” offers a riveting exploration of the frantic 90 minutes leading up to the first-ever broadcast of “Saturday Night Live” (SNL) on October 11, 1975. Directed by Jason Reitman, the film delves into the behind-the-scenes chaos that unfolded as a team of creators and performers prepared to launch what would become a television institution.

In an exclusive interview with “Q” host Tom Power on CBC Arts, Reitman recounted how his experience guest writing for SNL catalyzed the conception of “Saturday Night.” Reitman, who is well-known for the Oscar-winning film “Juno,” initially had aspirations that included both film directing and contributing to SNL. His opportunity arose in 2008 when he spent time in the writers’ room at 30 Rockefeller Plaza, famously penning a sketch featuring Ashton Kutcher.

“I was on the floor of [Studio 8H] and listening to the countdown, and it was a level of adrenaline I’ve never felt in my life,” Reitman shared with Power. “I’m thinking, ‘I want to capture this one day.'”

The film “Saturday Night”, according to Reitman, is a distillation of extensive interviews conducted by both him and his writing partner, Gil Kenan. They sought to encapsulate the essence of the show’s groundbreaking debut by speaking with a wide array of people involved, from actors to writers.

At the heart of “Saturday Night” is a portrayal of a 29-year-old Lorne Michaels, played by actor Gabriel Labelle. In 1975, Michaels embodied the youthful energy and ambition of a generation eager to challenge the norms of network television. “It’s pure exhilaration, but it’s also that moment that one generation rips TV out of the hands of another generation,” Reitman commented.

The director highlighted the remarkable feat achieved by SNL, noting the extraordinary demands placed on the production team during its creation process. “High school plays get more time to rehearse,” Reitman noted, illustrating the rigor of writing, rehearsing, and producing sketches within a span of a few days.

Reitman also referenced a poignant quote from Michaels that underscores the sense of urgency and determination driving SNL: “The show doesn’t go on because it’s ready; the show goes on because it’s 11:30.”

The full interview with Jason Reitman is available for viewing on the CBC Arts YouTube channel, offering further insights into the making of “Saturday Night” and Reitman’s reflections on SNL’s enduring legacy.