The Late Show (1977)
A sharp, affectionate neo-noir comedy pairing Art Carney's weathered detective with Lily Tomlin's irrepressible energy in sun-drenched Los Angeles.
The Late Show - Movie Information
- Release Year: 1977
- Directed by: Robert Benton
- Type: Movie
- Genres: Mystery, Crime, Comedy
- Age Rating (US): PG
- Runtime: 1h 33m
- Original Language: English
- Spoken Languages: English
- Release Date (Theatrical): February 10, 1977 (United States - PG), September 23, 1977 (Germany - 16), September 28, 1977 (France - TP)
- Production Companies: Warner Bros. Pictures, Lion's Gate Films
- Production Countries: United States of America
The Late Show - Plot
Over-the-hill gumshoe in Los Angeles seeks to avenge the killing of an old pal, another detective who was involved in a case concerning a murdered broad, stolen stamps, a nickel-plated handgun, a cheating dolly, and a kidnapped pussycat.
The Late Show - Trailer
Watch the official trailer and get a taste of this classic neo-noir comedy:
The nicest movie you'll ever see about murder and blackmail.
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The Late Show - Cast & Crew
Director(s)
- Robert Benton
Main Cast
- Art Carney
- Lily Tomlin
- Bill Macy
- Eugene Roche
- Joanna Cassidy
- John Considine
- Ruth Nelson
- John Davey
- Howard Duff
- Ray Pourchot
Writers
- Robert Benton
Producers
- Robert Altman
The Late Show - FAQs
Where can you stream or watch The Late Show?
The Late Show (1977) is available to rent or buy digitally through Amazon Video, Apple TV Store, Google Play Movies, YouTube, and Fandango At Home. It is not currently available on major subscription streaming services, so a digital rental is the easiest way to watch it.
What is The Late Show (1977) about?
The Late Show follows Ira Wells, an aging Los Angeles private detective who sets out to avenge the murder of his old partner. The investigation pulls him into a tangled case involving stolen stamps, a missing cat, blackmail, and a quirky accomplice named Margo, played by Lily Tomlin.
Who are the main actors in The Late Show?
The Late Show stars Art Carney as aging detective Ira Wells and Lily Tomlin as the eccentric Margo. The supporting cast includes Bill Macy, Eugene Roche, Joanna Cassidy, John Considine, Ruth Nelson, John Davey, Howard Duff, and Ray Pourchot.
Is The Late Show a neo-noir film?
Yes, The Late Show is widely regarded as a neo-noir comedy. It lovingly revisits classic hard-boiled detective conventions while filtering them through a 1970s sensibility, blending genuine mystery with sharp wit. The pairing of Art Carney and Lily Tomlin gives the film a distinctly modern and comedic edge.
Who directed The Late Show (1977)?
The Late Show was written and directed by Robert Benton, who later won Academy Awards for Kramer vs. Kramer (1979). The film was produced by Robert Altman, whose influence on the naturalistic, overlapping dialogue style is evident throughout.
Did The Late Show receive positive reviews from critics?
Yes, The Late Show earned strong critical praise upon release. Critics highlighted Art Carney's nuanced, world-weary performance and Lily Tomlin's comedic energy as standout elements. The film is appreciated for its affectionate yet subversive take on the classic private-eye genre, earning it a lasting cult reputation.
What is the age rating for The Late Show?
The Late Show is rated PG in the United States. While the film deals with themes of murder and blackmail, its tone remains relatively light and comedic, making it accessible to a broad audience. Parents may wish to note some mature thematic content typical of 1970s crime films.
How long is The Late Show (1977)?
The Late Show has a runtime of 93 minutes, or 1 hour and 33 minutes. Its brisk pace keeps the mystery moving efficiently while still allowing room for the comedic chemistry between Art Carney and Lily Tomlin to develop naturally throughout the story.
More About The Late Show
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