Chevy Chase’s Blunt Review of SNL Movie: “You Should Be Embarrassed,” Says Saturday Night Director

Despite receiving accolades from both critics and viewers, director Jason Reitman revealed that Chevy Chase was less than enthusiastic about the film Saturday Night. Co-written and directed by Reitman, this biographical film centers around the premiere night of the iconic sketch show, capturing the mayhem involved in its launch. In the film, Chase is brought to life by Cory Michael Smith, with a notable cast that includes Gabriel LaBelle as Lorne Michaels, Rachel Sennott as Rosie Shuster, Dylan O’Brien as Dan Aykroyd, and Matt Wood as John Belushi.

During a recent appearance on the Fly on the Wall podcast hosted by David Spade and Dana Carvey, Reitman discussed the responses surrounding Saturday Night and reflected on Chase’s direct commentary. The director shared that Chase bluntly expressed his disapproval, asserting that Reitman “should be embarrassed” after viewing the film:

So, Chevy comes in to watch the movie, and he is there with [wife] Jayni, and they watch the film, and he’s in the group, and he comes up to me after, and he pats me on the shoulder and goes, “Well, you should be embarrassed.”

Reitman’s reaction to Chase’s harsh remark showcased a mix of appreciation for Chase’s comedic honesty while expressing disappointment that the actor overlooked the nuances of his depiction, which aimed to highlight Chase’s humanity:

I’m trying to balance it, because, in my head, I know, “Alright, I’m getting my own Chevy Chase moment that’s 1,000% only for me right now.”And from a comedy point-of-view, that’s really pure, and that’s kind of cool. But also, I just spent like two years of my life recreating this moment and trying to capture Chevy perfectly, and also even in the ego, find the humanity and give him a moment to be loved — no, none of that s–t played. He’s not talking about that stuff.

Implications of Chase’s Reaction to Saturday Night

Anticipated Attention Surrounding Chase’s Critique

Rachel Sennott and Gabe LaBelle in Saturday Night

Chase’s unsparing review, while disappointing for Reitman, aligns with the actor’s notorious history. His departure from Saturday Night Live serves as a well-documented chapter filled with tension—particularly with cast members like John Belushi. Although Reitman chose not to focus on the controversies surrounding Chase, he tactfully hinted at the drama that would later unfold.

Furthermore, Chase’s criticism is consistent with his comedic style, reflecting his tendency towards sarcasm and biting humor, traits that have undoubtedly shaped his legacy, both in roles and personal interactions. While the full scope of Chase’s opinions on the film were not disclosed, it remains unclear where his remarks truly stemmed from—a jest or a genuine dissatisfaction.

Despite Chase’s lukewarm reception, other Saturday Night Live alumni voiced more positive reactions. For instance, Dan Aykroyd offered commendations for Reitman and co-writer Gil Kenan, describing the film as a “propulsive, engaging”experience and asserting it should be a “surefire candidate for Best Picture”at the upcoming 2025 Oscars.

Analyzing Chase’s Critique of Saturday Night

The Predictability of Chase’s Feedback

Chevy Chase hosting Weekend Update on SNL

Chase, despite his status as a comedy icon, has increasingly been associated with a troubled reputation due to numerous accounts of his challenging behavior on set. Recently, director Chris Columbus recounted a notably difficult experience while working with Chase during the early days of National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation, which notably led to Columbus’s departure from the project.

Given this backdrop, it was hardly surprising that Chase’s feedback on Saturday Night would be less than complimentary. His trajectory post-SNL involved actively distancing himself from the show, and his distinct comedic flair often turns critical, particularly when discussing works that delve into his time with Saturday Night Live.

Source: Fly on the Wall

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