Film Depicts Chaotic Launch of Saturday Night Live

The premiere of Saturday Night Live (SNL) on October 11, 1975, marked a significant shift in American comedy, as it broke away from traditional formats and brought a new wave of irreverence and social commentary. The show, initially titled Saturday Night due to a naming conflict, featured a mix of sketches, monologues, and performances that were still evolving in their style and sensibility. The coinciding film, Saturday Night, directed by Jason Reitman, captures the chaotic atmosphere of the show's preparation, highlighting the efforts of Lorne Michaels and his team to create something groundbreaking. This early episode included memorable sketches, such as a satirical take on America's gun culture, encapsulating the show's spirit of subversion. Both the movie and the original series reflect a cultural revolution in television that began in the 1970s, setting the stage for a new era of comedy. As SNL celebrates its 50th season, it remains a testament to the show's legacy and influence on the comedy landscape.