Dan Aykroyd has officially praised the film “Saturday Night.” The actor, who was part of the original cast of Saturday Night Live, expressed his appreciation for director Jason Reitman’s latest work on social media. The film focuses on the 90 minutes leading up to the debut of the sketch comedy show in 1975.
Aykroyd shared his review on X, formerly Twitter, on Friday after watching the film at a local theater. He wrote, “Cracking a Head to applaud Jason Reitman’s triumphant SNL film. Wow! What a propulsive, engaging, funny, beautifully cast and acted, suspenseful, adventurous, music-filled ride. A perfect window into the creative process at its highest level. Pretty accurate too.”
Reflecting on his personal experience, Aykroyd added, “I was there that night and got to relive it wonderfully again. Congratulations Gil, Jason, and Blumie. Don’t miss it whether you know the show or not. It is a stand-alone masterpiece and surefire candidate for Best Picture.”
The story unfolds on October 11, 1975, the night of SNL’s premiere, following a dynamic group of young comedians and writers who transformed television. The cast features Dylan O’Brien as Aykroyd, with Gabriel LaBelle, Rachel Sennott, Cory Michael Smith, Ella Hunt, Emily Fairn, Matt Wood, Lamorne Morris, Kim Matula, Nicholas Braun, and Andrew Barth Feldman in key roles.
Reitman previously mentioned the challenges of casting the role of Aykroyd, describing it as “genuinely scary.” He noted Aykroyd’s “unique sex appeal” and highlighted that when he recognized the interest in Dylan O’Brien among women, he felt confident in his choice.
Aykroyd also mentioned his eagerness to see the final portrayal of the story, having been the only original cast member to read the script prior to filming. “Saturday Night” is currently showing in theaters.