- Director: Colin Cairnes, Cameron Cairnes
- Release Date: March 10, 2023
- Running Time: 1h 26m
- Production Companies: Image Nation Abu Dhabi, VicScreen, AGC Studios, Good Fiend Films, Future Pictures, Spooky Pictures
- Distribution Companies: IFC Films, Shudder, Umbrella Entertainment, Maslow Entertainment, Ahi Films (Australia)
- Genre: Horror, Found Footage
”Late Night with the Devil”, the latest offering from director Alex Johnson, promised a unique blend of horror and comedy but unfortunately failed to deliver on both fronts. Marketed as a thrilling ride with devilish humor, the film instead leaves viewers with mixed feelings and unmet expectations.
One of the primary criticisms leveled against ”Late Night with the Devil” is its uncertain genre identity. While it leans heavily towards comedy, featuring quirky characters and bizarre situations, the horror elements feel underdeveloped and lack genuine scares. This imbalance might leave horror enthusiasts unsatisfied, expecting more depth and intensity from the supernatural aspects.
It seems to be more of a comedy than a horror movie. Indeed, the comedic elements often overshadow any attempts at creating a chilling atmosphere or suspenseful moments.
Another prevalent critique is the pacing of the film. It’s a very slow movie, echoing the sentiment of many who found themselves checking their watches throughout. The narrative unfolds at a languid pace, which, combined with the lack of compelling scares, can make some moments drag on unnecessarily. Some moments can be boring, despite sporadic attempts at injecting tension or intrigue, the plot struggles to maintain momentum, resulting in sequences that fail to engage or excite.
Furthermore, the film’s twists and turns fail to surprise. “It’s not a surprising movie as many say,” comments a viewer disappointed by the predictable plot developments. The narrative unfolds predictably, following well-trodden paths without offering much innovation or unexpected revelations.
Criticism also extends to the technical aspects of the film. The special effects are not good at all, highlighting another aspect where ”Late Night with the Devil” falls short. In a genre that often relies on visual spectacle to enhance its impact, subpar effects can detract significantly from the overall experience.
Amidst these criticisms, one bright spot emerges: David Dastmalchian’s performance. David Dastmalchian, who is the presenter, was the only one to stand out in the film. Dastmalchian brings a certain charisma and depth to his role, elevating scenes with his presence even when the material around him falls flat.
Conclusion
”Late Night with the Devil” struggles to find its footing as either a comedy or a horror film, failing to deliver compelling scares or laughs in equal measure. With pacing issues, predictable plot twists, and lackluster special effects, it ultimately disappoints those expecting a more thrilling and engaging experience. While David Dastmalchian shines amidst the mediocrity, it’s not enough to salvage the film from its shortcomings
About the author
‘Its Name Was Mormo’ Review: Fear-filled Hearts & Close Encounters
In Mark Bower’s staggering handmade visionary tale, his first movie has drawn the attention of nine international film distributors. A Haunting Tale Mark Bower's handmade visionary performance, "Its Name Was Mormo," is a haunting exploration of fear and the supernatural, capturing audiences with its raw and immersive storytelling which delves into the realm of psyche horror, evoking a sense of dread that lingers long after the camera battery dies. Plot and Atmosphere Set in a desolate, rural town, Its Name Was Mormo > follows the unsettling experiences of a family who encounter an evil entity known as Mormo. The film masterfully builds tension through its eerie landscapes, unsettling silence, and the palpable fear of its characters. Bower’s attention to detail in creating a chilling atmosphere is evident, as each scene is infused with an impending sense of doom. The narrative is […]
“The Legend of the Alley – Midnight’s Revenge” Horror Stories
"The Legend of the Alley – Midnight’s Revenge" Horror Tales My name is Daniel, and to be honest, I never believed in ghosts or urban legends. However, what happened to me in that small Colombian town at midnight on a Wednesday changed my perspective radically. I will never forget that night, an experience that, to this day, makes me question what I thought I knew about reality. It was a rainy summer night in the tiny town where I was staying. The place, with its dark alleys and dilapidated houses, seemed straight out of a Gothic novel. The rain fell persistently, creating puddles on the ground and generating a constant sound of drops hitting the pavement. I was walking down a narrow alley, my head bowed under the hood of my coat, trying to avoid getting wet more than necessary. […]
“The Woman Behind the Curtain” Horror Stories
"The Woman Behind the Curtain" Melisa, a 34-year-old woman who is elegant, serious, and preoccupied with her work, finds herself in the hospital. The sterile smell of antiseptic floats in the air as Melisa settles into the hospital bed, her eyes fixed on her phone screen. Work emails, updates, and endless tasks pile up in her digital world. Despite her kidney problems that brought her to the hospital, Melisa couldn’t stop immersing herself in work. It was the only thing that mattered, the only constant in her life that she could control. Melisa remained sitting in the hospital bed, occasionally writhing in pain but not paying much attention to it. The day passed uneventfully, with nurses coming in and out to administer medication and check her vital signs. Melisa noticed that the bed next to hers was separated by a […]
”Evil Dead: The Game” – Two New ‘Halloween’ Video Games in Development from ‘Evil Dead’
‘Evil Dead: The Game’ - Spooky Surprises Ahead: ‘Evil Dead: The Game’ Creators Crafting Two New Halloween Video Games Michael Myers is gearing up for a grand return to video games. IGN has unveiled exciting news that Boss Team Games, the studio renowned for Evil Dead: The Game, is working on not one but two new video games based on John Carpenter’s seminal slasher film, Halloween. The news is even more thrilling given that Carpenter himself is involved in at least one of these projects. While precise details about the games remain limited, it has been confirmed that both titles are being developed in close collaboration with the producers behind the Halloween franchise. Notably, one of the games will be powered by the cutting-edge Unreal Engine 5, promising a visually immersive and high-fidelity experience that will bring the terror of […]
‘’Hell Hole’’ Review – A Gritty Creature Feature with Dark Humor
“Hell Hole” A Thrilling Fusion of Heavy Metal, Creature Feature Excitement, and Sharp-Witted Humor The Adams Family—comprising father John Adams, mother Tobey Poser, and their daughters—has become synonymous with a distinct punk rock, DIY filmmaking ethos. Their previous works, including The Deeper You Dig, Hellbender, and last year’s Where the Devil Roams, showcase their knack for blending creativity with a raw, hands-on approach. Their latest project, Hell Hole, continues this tradition with an inventive homage to classic creature features. It’s not just the gory monster effects that make this film stand out; it’s the Adams Family's ability to push creative boundaries, infusing the film with a playful, heavy metal vibe and a healthy dose of dark humor. ''Hell Hole'' begins in an unusual setting: Serbian territory in 1814. French soldiers, battling for Napoleon Bonaparte and led by a character played […]
”The Bench” A Scottish Horror Film: The 17-Year Odyssey to Release
''The Bench'' - From Idea to Cult Classic: The 17-Year Saga of a Scottish Horror Film ''The Bench'' A Scottish horror film that has been in the making for nearly 17 years has finally emerged from its protracted journey. The Bench is a suspenseful slasher film revolving around a group of friends who, while staying at a remote cabin in Renfrewshire, encounter a series of terrifying events as they mysteriously disappear one by one. Although the concept seemed promising, the film’s production faced numerous hurdles, from Scotland's erratic weather to financial shortages that brought progress to a halt. Sean Wilkie, the film's writer and director, spoke candidly to BBC Scotland News about the emotional rollercoaster of seeing The Bench finally come to fruition. A Coatbridge native, Wilkie transitioned from short films to this full-length horror venture, drawing inspiration from horror […]
“Hold Your Breath” – New Horror Flick Landing on Hulu This October
“Hold Your Breath” A Spine-Chilling Dive into Fear and Suspense Searchlight Pictures has unveiled a series of haunting first-look images from their highly anticipated horror-thriller, Hold Your Breath. This spine-chilling film is set to make its exclusive debut on Hulu on October 3, 2024, just in time to inject a dose of terror into the Halloween festivities. Check our article "Its Name Was Mormo" The Influence of Found Footage in Horror > Starring the formidable Sarah Paulson, Hold Your Breath features an exceptional ensemble cast including Ebon Moss-Bachrach, Amiah Miller, and Annaleigh Ashford. With the directorial expertise of Karrie Crouse and William Joines, the film is poised to captivate and disturb audiences with its gripping narrative. The film’s setting is as ominous as its plot: 1930s Oklahoma, a landscape ravaged by relentless dust storms and an atmosphere thick with dread. […]
Related
‘’Hell Hole’’ Review – A Gritty Creature Feature with Dark Humor
“Hell Hole” A Thrilling Fusion of Heavy Metal, Creature Feature Excitement, and Sharp-Witted Humor The Adams Family—comprising father John Adams, mother Tobey Poser, and their daughters—has become synonymous with a distinct punk rock, DIY filmmaking ethos. Their previous works, including The Deeper You Dig, Hellbender, and last year’s Where the Devil Roams, showcase their knack for blending creativity with a raw, hands-on approach. Their latest project, Hell Hole, continues this tradition with an inventive homage to classic creature features. It’s not just the gory monster effects that make this film stand out; it’s the Adams Family's ability to push creative boundaries, infusing the film with a playful, heavy metal vibe and a healthy dose of dark humor. ''Hell Hole'' begins in an unusual setting: Serbian territory in 1814. French soldiers, battling for Napoleon Bonaparte and led by a character played […]
”The Red” Michael Biehn Faces Off Against a Zombie Kangaroo -This Halloween
‘’The Red’’ A Thrilling Blend of Horror and Hilarity This Halloween, brace yourself for an exhilarating cinematic experience with "The Red," a captivating new creature feature that brings Michael Biehn back to the spotlight. Known for his unforgettable roles in classic sci-fi and horror, Biehn is set to deliver a performance that promises to keep audiences on the edge of their seats. The film, blending elements of horror and comedy, has just unveiled its official trailer, hinting at a Halloween adventure that's anything but ordinary. "The Red" takes inspiration from Ryan Coonan’s 2014 festival hit, Waterborne, and expands it into a thrilling full-length feature. Coonan, who directs and co-writes the screenplay with Richard Barcaricchio, promises a fresh and terrifyingly entertaining take on the creature feature genre. Check our movie review Found Footage ''in our Blood''> Premiering in Australian theaters on […]
Stephen King’s ‘The Long Walk’ Movie Adaptation Expands Cast as Filming Begins
Francis Lawrence, known for ''The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes'', is set to direct the film adaptation of Stephen King’s 1979 novel ''The Long Walk''. According to Deadline, new actors have joined the cast as production kicks off. The screenplay is written by JT Mollner, known for ''Strange Darling*. Originally written under the pseudonym Richard Bachman, King’s novel is set in a dystopian future America governed by a totalitarian regime. In ''The Long Walk'', the nation hosts an annual walking competition where 100 teenagers must walk continuously under strict regulations until only one remains alive to claim the prize. The narrative centers around 16-year-old Raymond Garraty and the diverse group of teens he encounters during the grueling event. The movie will feature Garrett Wareing (Ransom Canyon), Tut Nyout (The Witcher: Blood Origin), Charlie Plummer (Spontaneous), Ben Wang […]
“Dead Whisper” Movie Review
"Dead Whisper" (2024) is a movie that arrived on screens with high expectations, especially among fans of the supernatural horror genre. The film attempts to explore the most chilling aspects of the paranormal. However, despite its intriguing premise, the movie falls short in several critical areas, leaving viewers with a sense of dissatisfaction. The story of "Dead Whisper" revolves around Samuel Dunning, played by an up-and-coming star of independent cinema. Samuel is a Cape Cod lawyer who feels drawn to a mysterious island, where he is tempted by the possibility of reuniting with his dead daughter, although this puts his soul in jeopardy. The mansion on the island, steeped in a dark and unsettling history, serves as the perfect backdrop for a classic ghost story. However, the execution of the film leaves much to be desired. From the beginning, "Dead […]
The Substance Trailer: Demi Moore Transforms into Margaret Qualley in Coralie Fargeat’s Gripping Body Horror Film
The Substance - Body Horror Film French filmmaker Coralie Fargeat made a splash with her subversive 2018 rape-revenge thriller, ''Revenge'', establishing herself as a director with a distinctive style and deep substance. Fresh from directing the mind-bending ninth episode of Netflix's ''The Sandman'', Fargeat now brings her unique vision to the Cannes award-winning satirical body horror, ''The Substance''. In this highly anticipated film, Demi Moore portrays a washed-up TV personality who undergoes a dramatic transformation into Margaret Qualley after taking an experimental serum. Following a tantalizing sneak peek in May, MUBI has unveiled a new teaser for the film, which you can watch below. This one-minute teaser expertly builds intrigue without giving away any spoilers, showcasing a masterclass in trailer-making. "Have you ever dreamt of a better version of yourself? Younger, more beautiful, more perfect?" Dennis Quaid's voice seductively queries […]
“The Last Voyage of the Demeter”
Unveiling Terror on Amazon Prime Video The highly anticipated film "El Último Viaje del Demeter" is now available on Amazon Prime Video, offering viewers a chilling and terrifying glimpse into the mythical journey of the merchant ship Demeter, tasked with transporting a mysterious cargo from Carpathia to London. A journey filled with terror The plot revolves around the strange and spine-chilling events faced by the unfortunate crew members as they try to survive a ruthless presence lurking aboard. As the journey progresses, the sailors find themselves trapped in a deadly game against an implacable entity. When the Demeter finally arrives on the shores of England, charred and abandoned, there is no trace of the crew, leaving behind a haunting mystery. Beyond Dracula's chapter While the original novel "Dracula" devotes only one chapter to the Demeter voyage, this segment is […]
