Live From New York!

“Live From New York!” documents the early years of "Saturday Night Live” and examines how this late-night show became an American institution.

Directed by Bao Nguyen, Live From New York, documents the history of Saturday Night Live (SNL), the late-night, live television show that has explored American politics, tragedy and popular culture through sketch comedy for over 40 years. 

The documentary is made up of archival footage interwoven with stolen moments and exclusive commentary from SNL legends, journalists, hosts, musical guests, crew and others influenced by the comedy show. Live From New York also explores some of the darker elements of the show such as sexism, racial diversity, and the effects of 9/11.

At the heart of the show’s success is its creator, Lorne Micheals who rounded up a troupe of New York’s most talented, undiscovered comedy stars. Premiering in 1975, the show has become a New York institution, pop-culture lifeblood and it has perfected the art of political satire.

Saturday Night Live is one of the longest running network television shows in the United States and through the years, the show has held up a mirror to society, from the comedic glory of the Clinton years and Tina Fey’s Sarah Palin impression to Sinead O’Connor ripping up a picture of Pope John Paul II.

*This film will be screened at the Design Indaba FilmFest 2016 in Cape Town, Johannesburg, Durban, Potchefstroom and Port Elizabeth as part of the Design Indaba Festival. The FilmFest will take place at the various locations across the country. Watch out for our programme for more information and tickets

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