"Saturday Night Live," a humorous film about the TV debut of the show, has erratic comedy and exuberant energy that occasionally wanes on Afdah Movies. Still, it's entertaining to see, as many of the performances go beyond simple imitations. While some of the movie's settings border on absurd comedy territory, most of the dialogue is sharp, if perhaps a touch too manufactured. Although the movie's version of "Saturday Night" is exaggerated, some aspects of the story seem more realistic, particularly in regards to the infamous drug and alcohol use that occurred behind the scenes. There are a few allusions to individuals abusing illegal substances, but they are extremely mild in comparison to the alleged actualities of addiction and backstage debauchery. Lorne Michaels, the creator and showrunner of "Saturday Night Live," is one example.
Generally regarded as the most gifted and hilarious members of the original "Saturday Night Live" cast, John Belushi and Gilda Radner receive little more than supporting roles on "Saturday Night Live." Rather, the most of the cast members' screen time is devoted to the smug playboy Chevy Chase and the quick-witted Canadian wisecracking Dan Aykroyd, who also happens to be openly having an affair with Lorne's wife, the sardonic and industrious feminist writer of "Saturday Night Live," Rosie Shuster. Although Lorne is aware of the affair, he is more focused on starting "Saturday Night Live." The history of Lorne and Rosie's relationship is that, although they were first friends, he eventually developed feelings for her that beyond her own.
