Written by Trudi Cintron
Modified & Updated: 18 May 2024
Reviewed by Sherman Smith
The Late Show is a highly acclaimed movie that captivates audiences with its gripping storyline, outstanding performances, and intriguing plot twists. Released in [YEAR], this film has gained a cult following and continues to be celebrated as a cinematic masterpiece. Directed by [DIRECTOR’S NAME], The Late Show weaves together elements of mystery, suspense, and drama to create an unforgettable viewing experience. In this article, we will delve into 46 fascinating facts about The Late Show, providing you with an in-depth look at the making of this remarkable film. From behind-the-scenes anecdotes to trivia about the cast and crew, get ready to uncover the secrets that made The Late Show an instant classic. So, grab your popcorn and let’s dive into this enthralling journey into the world of The Late Show!
Key Takeaways:
- “The Late Show” is a classic neo-noir mystery film set in 1970s LA, featuring a compelling storyline, iconic performances, and a blend of humor and drama that keeps viewers engaged.
- The movie’s success led to a resurgence of interest in neo-noir films, inspiring a new wave of filmmakers to explore the genre and paving the way for character-driven detective stories.
Fact 1
The Late Show is a classic neo-noir mystery film directed by Robert Benton and released in 1977.
Fact 2
The movie stars the legendary actor, Art Carney, who won an Academy Award for his role in the film.
Fact 3
The Late Show was inspired by the detective novels of Raymond Chandler and Dashiell Hammett, encapsulating the
gritty atmosphere of classic detective stories.
Fact 4
This film marks Benton’s debut as a solo director after previously working as a screenwriter for acclaimed films
like Bonnie and Clyde.
Fact 5
The Late Show is set in Los Angeles and follows an aging private detective named Ira Wells (played by Art
Carney) as he investigates a missing persons case.
Fact 6
The Late Show beautifully captures the essence of 1970s LA, showcasing the city’s vibrant yet dark underbelly
through its visually stunning cinematography.
Fact 7
The movie combines elements of both comedy and drama, creating a unique blend of genres that keeps the viewers
entertained throughout.
Fact 8
The Late Show also features an impressive supporting cast, including Lily Tomlin, who delivers a memorable
performance as Margo Sperling, an eccentric young woman who assists Ira in his investigation.
Fact 9
Art Carney’s portrayal of Ira Wells showcases his versatility as an actor, moving away from his comedic roots in
The Honeymooners to deliver a nuanced and compelling performance.
Fact 10
The Late Show received critical acclaim upon its release, with many praising the film for its intricate
storytelling and character development.
Fact 11
The movie explores themes of aging, loneliness, and the changing landscape of the detective genre.
Fact 12
Robert Benton’s direction in The Late Show captures the essence of film noir, making it a must-watch for fans
of the genre.
Fact 13
The Late Show was a commercial success, further solidifying Art Carney’s status as a respected actor.
Fact 14
Art Carney’s performance in The Late Show garnered him critical acclaim and a nomination for the Best Actor
Academy Award.
Fact 15
The Late Show’s screenplay, written by Robert Benton and David Newman, effectively captures the essence of
hard-boiled detective novels.
Fact 16
The Late Show stands as a testament to the enduring allure of classic detective stories, appealing to both
film enthusiasts and fans of the genre.
Fact 17
The movie’s title, “The Late Show,” is a nod to the term used to describe the final showing of the day in
cinemas.
Fact 18
Robert Benton’s meticulous attention to detail is evident throughout the film, creating a captivating and
immersive experience for the audience.
Fact 19
The Late Show’s soundtrack, composed by Kenneth Ascher, perfectly complements the film’s mood, adding to the
overall atmosphere.
Fact 20
The Late Show continues to inspire filmmakers, with its influence seen in contemporary crime dramas and
detective films.
Fact 21
The late 1970s marked a resurgence of interest in film noir, and The Late Show is considered one of the
standout films of this era.
Fact 22
The film’s script underwent several revisions before its final version, ensuring a tightly woven narrative that
keeps the audience engaged.
Fact 23
Robert Benton’s mastery of the noir genre is evident in The Late Show, as he pays homage to the classics while
introducing his unique directorial style.
Fact 24
The Late Show’s release coincided with a changing era in Hollywood, as the industry began to embrace new,
unconventional storytelling techniques.
Fact 25
The movie’s costume design captures the fashion trends of the 1970s, adding another layer of authenticity to
the overall production.
Fact 26
The Late Show’s success solidified Art Carney’s reputation as a serious actor, capable of delivering powerful
performances.
Fact 27
The Late Show has gained a cult following over the years, with fans appreciating its unique blend of humor,
suspense, and nostalgia.
Fact 28
This film marks an important chapter in the career of both Robert Benton and Art Carney, setting the stage for
their future endeavors in the film industry.
Fact 29
The Late Show’s dialogue is sharp and witty, reflecting the distinct characteristics of classic detective
stories.
Fact 30
The film’s pacing keeps the audience guessing, with unexpected twists and turns adding to the intrigue.
Fact 31
The Late Show’s production design meticulously recreates the 1970s Los Angeles, immersing the viewers in the
setting.
Fact 32
The relationship between Ira Wells and Margo Sperling in The Late Show adds a layer of depth to the narrative,
exploring themes of trust, camaraderie, and unlikely partnerships.
Fact 33
Art Carney’s portrayal of Ira Wells is considered one of the standout performances of his career, showcasing
his versatility as an actor.
Fact 34
The Late Show’s cinematography, helmed by renowned cinematographer Charles Rosher Jr., beautifully captures
the mood and essence of the noir genre.
Fact 35
The Late Show’s screenplay seamlessly blends humor and drama, creating a well-rounded and engaging narrative
that appeals to a wide range of viewers.
Fact 36
The film’s title is a clever play on words, referring both to the time slot of the final showing and the
detective’s investigation into a murder case.
Fact 37
The Late Show’s success at the box office led to a renewed interest in neo-noir films, inspiring a new wave of
filmmakers to explore the genre.
Fact 38
The Late Show’s screenplay is filled with memorable quotes and one-liners that have become iconic within the
film community.
Fact 39
The Late Show’s narrative keeps the viewers guessing until the very end, with unexpected plot twists and a
satisfying resolution.
Fact 40
The film’s editing, done by renowned editor Jerry Greenberg, enhances the suspense and pacing of the
story.
Fact 41
The Late Show received numerous award nominations, including for Best Original Screenplay and Best Supporting
Actress for Lily Tomlin.
Fact 42
The Late Show’s success paved the way for other character-driven detective films that focus on the complexities
of human nature.
Fact 43
The film’s opening sequence sets the tone for the rest of the movie, drawing the viewers into its dark and
mysterious world.
Fact 44
The Late Show’s exploration of themes like redemption and the search for truth resonates with audiences
across generations.
Fact 45
The late 1970s marked a turning point in Hollywood, with The Late Show standing as a testament to the new wave
of creativity and storytelling approaches.
Fact 46
The Late Show’s enduring legacy can be attributed to its compelling characters, gripping storyline, and
superb performances by the talented cast.
Conclusion
The Late Show is an iconic movie that has captivated audiences for decades. With its compelling storyline, stellar performances, and unique blend of comedy and suspense, it continues to be a fan favorite. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a newcomer to the film, these 46 fascinating facts about The Late Show will surely leave you with a deeper appreciation for this cinematic gem. From behind-the-scenes trivia to interesting anecdotes about the cast and crew, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So grab some popcorn, dim the lights, and join the millions of fans who have been mesmerized by The Late Show’s powerful storytelling and timeless charm.
FAQs
1. Who directed The Late Show?
The Late Show was directed by Robert Benton.
2. When was The Late Show released?
The movie was released on February 10, 1977.
3. Who starred in The Late Show?
The Late Show featured a stellar cast, including Art Carney, Lily Tomlin, and Bill Macy.
4. What is the genre of The Late Show?
The Late Show is a crime comedy-drama film.
5. Is The Late Show based on a book?
No, The Late Show is an original screenplay written by Robert Benton.
6. Where was The Late Show filmed?
The majority of the movie was filmed in Los Angeles, California.
7. Did The Late Show receive any awards?
Yes, Art Carney won the Best Actor award at the Cannes Film Festival for his performance in The Late Show.
8. Is The Late Show available on streaming platforms?
Yes, The Late Show is available for streaming on various platforms, such as Amazon Prime and Netflix.
9. What was the budget of The Late Show?
The movie had a budget of approximately $2.5 million.
10. Does The Late Show have a sequel?
No, The Late Show does not have a sequel.
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