5 Shocking Reasons 'Late Night With The Devil' Is The Most Talked-About Horror Film Of The Year
The independent horror film Late Night with the Devil has done more than just scare audiences; it has ignited a global conversation about filmmaking ethics, critical acclaim, and the power of a perfectly executed found-footage concept. As of this update in December 2025, the Australian supernatural chiller continues to dominate discussions long after its initial release, thanks to its near-perfect critical score and a controversy that sent shockwaves through the industry.
The movie, set entirely around a disastrous 1977 Halloween night broadcast of a fictional talk show, "Night Owls," has been hailed as a masterclass in atmospheric horror. Starring David Dastmalchian in a career-defining role, the film's unique blend of retro aesthetics, genuine terror, and a compelling central performance makes it essential viewing for any horror enthusiast seeking something fresh and deeply unsettling.
The Phenomenon of Jack Delroy's 'Night Owls'
The core genius of Late Night with the Devil lies in its immersive, period-accurate setting. Directed by Australian brothers Colin and Cameron Cairnes, the film presents itself as a recently discovered master tape of a live television broadcast from 1977. The show, "Night Owls," is hosted by Jack Delroy, played with captivating intensity by David Dastmalchian.
Delroy is a troubled but ambitious late-night host desperate to boost his ratings. The Halloween special is his last-ditch effort, featuring a chaotic line-up of guests, including a parapsychologist (Laura Gordon), a skeptical magician (Rhys Auteri), and a young girl (Ingrid Torelli) who is the sole survivor of a Satanic cult's mass suicide and is believed to be possessed by a demon.
David Dastmalchian's Career-Defining Performance
David Dastmalchian, known for his distinctive roles in films like The Dark Knight and The Suicide Squad, delivers a performance that anchors the entire film. His portrayal of Jack Delroy is complex: a charming, vulnerable host battling personal tragedy and a relentless pursuit of television stardom. His on-screen desperation perfectly mirrors the escalating terror of the live broadcast, making the audience feel like they are truly watching a historical document of a supernatural disaster.
The film masterfully uses the format of a live 70s talk show, complete with commercial breaks and behind-the-scenes footage, to build tension. The "found footage" style is not just a gimmick; it’s a crucial narrative device that elevates the horror, contrasting the polished, on-air persona of the guests with the raw, terrifying reality captured backstage.
Controversy and Critical Acclaim: The AI Firestorm
Despite its overwhelming critical success—it boasts a prestigious 97% Rotten Tomatoes score—Late Night with the Devil was not without significant controversy. The film's directors admitted to using artificial intelligence (AI) to generate a few still images, specifically for the intertitle cards that appeared between the 'commercial breaks' and the 'live' segments of the broadcast.
This admission sparked a massive debate, particularly among artists, writers, and industry professionals concerned about the ethical implications of using AI in creative work. Many called for a boycott of the film, arguing that any use of generative AI undermines human artistry and labor.
Hollywood's Reaction and the Defense of the Film
The controversy became a flashpoint in the broader discussion about AI in Hollywood. However, the film received strong defense from prominent figures in the horror community. Acclaimed director Mike Flanagan, known for The Haunting of Hill House, publicly supported the Cairnes brothers and the film, calling it "absolutely excellent" and urging people to see it despite the backlash.
Ultimately, the controversy did little to dampen the film's success. Critics praised its originality, atmosphere, and Dastmalchian's performance, solidifying its status as one of the best horror films of the year. The film’s narrative, which explores the dark side of fame and the lengths a person will go to for ratings, became ironically mirrored by the real-world spectacle of its own release.
Box Office Success and Where to Watch Now
The film’s financial performance demonstrated that critical acclaim and controversy can translate into commercial success. Late Night with the Devil managed to gross $14 million internationally, a significant achievement for an independent horror picture. Its box office run was also marked by a bizarre, on-brand moment when the film pulled in an eerily specific $666,666 in ticket sales on a single Sunday.
This success proves the enduring appetite for smart, well-crafted supernatural horror that respects its source material while offering a fresh take. The Australian production team, Spooky Pictures and Image Nation Abu Dhabi, successfully tapped into a niche market that appreciates both the found footage genre and the nostalgia of 1970s television.
Streaming and Legacy
For those who missed its theatrical run, the film quickly found a home on a major horror streaming platform. As of April 2024, Late Night with the Devil is available for streaming on Shudder, making it easily accessible to a global audience of horror fans. Its move to streaming cemented its legacy as a modern horror classic that is both highly entertaining and deeply thought-provoking.
The film’s influence is already being felt, inspiring discussions about the integration of media formats—mixing the high-quality film look with grainy, archival-style footage—and the effectiveness of the 'fake documentary' or 'mockumentary' style. It successfully joins the ranks of celebrated found-footage films, but with a distinct, late-night talk show twist that sets it apart.
The legacy of Jack Delroy's Halloween special is now complete: a fictional disaster on screen, and a real-world triumph for independent cinema.
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