Saturday Night

The film opens with audition tapes featuring the main cast, introducing talented actors such as Dan Aykroyd, Chevy Chase, and Gilda Radner. This sets the stage for their much-anticipated debut in a new comedy sketch show.

On October 11, 1975, at 10:00 PM, Lorne Michaels arrives at 30 Rockefeller Plaza, readying for the live broadcast of 'Saturday Night.' With just 90 minutes till air time, he faces various challenges to organize cast, crew, and sketches effectively.

As the cast gathers for their first rehearsal, they dive into character roles with John and Gilda portraying a couple and Dan and Garrett as robbers. This rehearsal sets a comedic tone but also reveals the underlying tensions among the team.

During rehearsal, a set of lights crashes and ignites a small fire on the couch. Though quickly extinguished, this incident escalates tensions as crew members voice their frustrations, pushing a technician to quit the production.

Garrett seeks advice from musician Billy Preston and his band, who encourage him to relax on camera. This moment underscores Garrett’s insecurity about being a trained performer in a room full of comedic talent.

Head writer Michael O’Donoghue clashes with network censor Joan Carbunkle over the content of sketches, leading to heightened tensions. Michael boldly challenges Joan regarding the boundaries of humor and censorship in their comedy productions.

Lorne seeks counsel from his wife and co-writer Rosie Shuster while trying to finalize sketches for the show. Their conversation reveals personal dynamics and concerns about how they will be perceived in the industry.

Lorne and Dick meet with NBC executives to discuss the future of their show. Known for its high expectations, NBC is skeptical about 'Saturday Night,' causing Lorne to grapple with increasing pressure and obstacles.

Conflicts arise as host George Carlin and musical guest Janis Ian prepare, with Carlin’s abrasive demeanor causing discord among the crew. This unsettling atmosphere further complicates preparations for the live broadcast.

John and Chevy have a heated argument regarding John's reluctance to shave for the performance. After some persuasion from Lorne and Rosie, the two men eventually come together to resume their preparations for the show.

As the production team conducts final checks, Lorne receives an unsettling call from Johnny Carson, who hints at his show's potential failure due to its scheduling conflict with his program. This looming threat intensifies Lorne's anxiety.

Legendary comedian Milton Berle arrives for a sketch, adding to the mix of challenges faced by the production. His presence amplifies the pressure on Lorne and the crew to deliver a stellar performance.

In a whirlwind of activity, the cast shifts gears and pivots their sketches, leading to a frantic yet creative atmosphere backstage. This urgency leads to hilarious improvisation as everyone scrambles to put their best foot forward.

With time running out, Jim Henson provides Lorne with encouragement to refocus on the passion behind the show. This heartfelt moment revitalizes the team as they prepare for the impending live broadcast.

As the audience fills the studio, Lorne gains renewed determination after saying goodbye to Billy and Valri. The cast springs into action as tensions ease, culminating in Chevy's iconic introduction: 'Live from New York, it’s SATURDAY NIGHT!'