This week's Hyde Park Pick

The world of film can feel heavy at times. This can get magnified during the awards season, when it feels like we’re juggling lots of big titles that are making big and beautiful gestures in the world. It’s exciting being a cinema in this period, showcasing films that the whole world seems to be feverishly discussing. But, it’s also rather lovely when we start to slip out the other side and find what is there to greet us. It’s that sentiment that’s inspired this week's Hyde Park Pick – Late Night with the Devil (15, 2024, 93mins) – a new indie horror film from long established filmmaking duo (and brothers) Colin and Cameron Cairnes (100 Bloody Acres).

Set in 1977, the film unearths a lost taping of a late-night talk show episode which features a once popular host now floundering. In an attempt to revitalise audiences, he takes the rather risky decision of dabbling with the occult (as one does). The host in question is brought to life by David Dastmalchian who we too often see stealing scene after scene in major blockbusters (Oppenheimer, Dune: Part One) or cult favourites (Twin Peaks) and it’s a real pleasure seeing him in a leading role here. One of the many factors which makes Late Night a real treat of an indie film.

For the film the Cairnes Brothers have also replicated the detail and feel of their chosen period beautifully. That feel is critical to creating what is a really special – and kind of creepy – atmosphere.

Now, I don’t want to say too much more, as like most good horrors it’s best to know little going in, but Late Night with the Devil is one for film fans looking to come down off the awards high with a grungy crash, and to have fun with the ride along the way.

Late Night with the Devil plays at HPPH daily from Friday 22nd March. More info, showtimes and tickets are available here.