I watched Late Night with the Devil on opening weekend, drawn to its unique blend of found footage and analog horror elements. The film’s plot, revolving around a 1970’s live television broadcast descending into chaos, intrigued me. However, it was the themes and questions raised that lingered long after the credits, captivating my attention just as much as its aesthetic.
Humanity has always been fascinated by fame, from ancient mythological heroes to modern- day celebrities. This deep-seated craving for recognition and security within societal power structures is ingrained in the human condition. Is this desirability rooted in fundamental psychological drivers, such as feelings of inadequacy and insecurity, or driven by the existential fear of death, seeking to evade mortality by leaving an enduring legacy?
Stories and biblical texts often employ the “Devil” metaphor to symbolize consequence or maintain social order through intimidation. While intriguing, I find Faustian tropes more captivating, probing profound questions: To what extremes will individuals go to feel seen and desired? What ultimate sacrifices will they make?
The timeless metaphors surrounding “selling one’s soul” for fame, remain relevant today. In our digital age, anyone can become an overnight sensation through social media. Yet, we repeatedly witness public figures facing cancellation through our screens – sometimes for trivial reasons, but often for egregious misconduct that may be unthinkable to the average person.
Sean “Diddy” Combs faces multiple allegations of sexual assault, harassment, and sex trafficking, fueling widespread speculation about his infamous gatherings. These events eerily echo the secretive excesses portrayed in Eyes Wide Shut, contradicting their previous image as glamorous Hollywood parties. These revelations, though disturbing, are unsurprising. Elite groups like Bohemian Grove remain shrouded in mystery, but Jeffrey Epstein’s private island serves as a stark reminder of exploitation’s grim reality. In more minute ways, power dynamics permeate daily life, manifesting subtly in office hierarchies, school cliques, and social relationships.
While demonic possession films like The Exorcist unsettle me, I find the Faustian portrayal of Satan in works like Rosemary’s Baby or Late Night with the Devil more disturbing. These depictions incorporate real-world psychological elements, raising important questions.
As a writer, I’m drawn to fiction that explores the human condition through metaphors. Reflecting on my own life and the people I’ve encountered, even I notice subtle threads of the Faustian narrative woven throughout. The devil isn’t a monstrous figure lurking beneath our beds, tempting us; instead, “he” resides in our choices and vulnerabilities. Wherever there is a ladder to climb, you will find him there.
Guest writer Jaiden Dalbello is a 24 year-old filmmaker and writer from Toronto, Ontario. Ever since Jaiden was a child, storytelling served as the ultimate translator from her brain circuits to the rest of the world. She recently wrote an award winning 12 episode Tv Series entitled “God Bless America” and is looking for a literary agent to help her realize it. Learn more at https://www.jaidendalbello.com/