They Call It Late Night, the 2019 comedy-drama starring Emma Thompson and Mindy Kaling, primarily utilizes a combination of actual television studios in New York City and carefully constructed sets to create its authentic late-night show environment. The film expertly blends reality and fiction to capture the high-pressure, fast-paced world of late-night television.
A Glimpse Behind the Scenes: New York City’s TV Studio Landscape
The film strategically leverages existing New York City television studios, most notably studios within the NBCUniversal umbrella, to provide a grounding in reality. While the fictional “Tonight with Katherine Newbury” show doesn’t have a single, identifiable filming location, the production team used various spaces and cleverly adapted them to suit the narrative’s needs.
The decision to film in New York City was crucial for authenticity. The city’s vibrant energy and established television infrastructure provide the perfect backdrop for a story about the cutthroat world of late-night comedy. The filmmakers were committed to creating a believable environment, and utilizing real studios contributed significantly to that goal. This includes utilizing the backstage corridors, control rooms, and other operational spaces of existing studios to provide realistic transition shots and establish the frenetic atmosphere of a live television production.
The Art of Set Design: Creating the Fictional World
While the film uses real studio locations, the iconic late-night show set itself is largely a product of meticulous set design. The art department worked tirelessly to create a visually appealing and functional space that reflected Katherine Newbury’s personality and the overall tone of the show.
Recreating a Late-Night Stage
The set design incorporates elements common to most late-night shows: a large desk, a comfortable interview area, a bandstand, and a large screen for visuals and musical performances. The lighting is carefully crafted to create a dynamic and visually interesting environment, while the overall aesthetic is sleek and modern, reflecting Katherine Newbury’s sophistication and power.
The Importance of Detail
The production team paid close attention to detail, ensuring that everything from the props on Katherine Newbury’s desk to the artwork on the walls contributed to the overall realism of the film. They also incorporated subtle details that hinted at Katherine Newbury’s personality and background, adding depth and complexity to her character.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about They Call It Late Night Filming Locations
Here are some frequently asked questions about the filming locations for They Call It Late Night, providing further insight into the production process.
1. Was They Call It Late Night filmed in a real late-night studio?
Yes and no. While the film utilizes real television studios within NBCUniversal in New York City for backstage and operational shots, the primary set of “Tonight with Katherine Newbury” was custom-built for the film.
2. Did Emma Thompson base her character on a real late-night host?
While Emma Thompson’s character, Katherine Newbury, is fictional, she is rumored to be inspired by various female comedians who have struggled for recognition in the male-dominated world of comedy. Some speculate inspirations drawn from Joan Rivers and Samantha Bee.
3. How did they make the late-night show segments look so authentic?
The production team employed experienced television professionals and consultants to ensure the accuracy of the late-night show segments. They focused on replicating the look and feel of real late-night television, from the lighting and camera angles to the pacing and comedic timing.
4. Were any actual late-night show writers involved in the film?
The writing team for They Call It Late Night, primarily Mindy Kaling, did extensive research and spoke with numerous late-night television writers to gain a deeper understanding of the industry and incorporate authentic details into the script. While not officially credited as writers on the film, their insights significantly informed the story.
5. Where can I visit the locations used in the film?
While you can’t visit the specific set of “Tonight with Katherine Newbury” (as it was dismantled after filming), you can potentially tour NBC Studios in New York City, where some of the backstage scenes were filmed. Be sure to check tour availability and restrictions.
6. How long did it take to film They Call It Late Night?
Principal photography for They Call It Late Night took approximately six weeks, a relatively short timeframe compared to larger-budget Hollywood productions. This efficient schedule was due to careful planning and the availability of existing studio facilities.
7. What was the budget for They Call It Late Night?
They Call It Late Night was produced on a relatively modest budget of around $11 million, allowing the filmmakers to prioritize storytelling and character development over extravagant special effects.
8. Did the actors rehearse extensively before filming the late-night segments?
Yes, the actors underwent extensive rehearsals to perfect their comedic timing and deliver believable performances in the late-night show segments. This included working with experienced comedy coaches and improvisational experts.
9. What role did New York City play in the overall aesthetic of the film?
New York City’s gritty realism and vibrant energy are integral to the film’s overall aesthetic. The city’s iconic landmarks and bustling streets provide a constant reminder of the high-pressure environment in which Katherine Newbury operates.
10. Was any of the film shot outside of New York City?
While some minor exterior shots might have been captured elsewhere for logistical reasons, the vast majority of filming took place in New York City, solidifying the film’s connection to the late-night television industry.
11. How did the filmmakers choose the specific studios to use?
The filmmakers likely chose the studios based on a combination of factors, including availability, cost, and the specific needs of the production. The chosen studios had the necessary facilities and infrastructure to accommodate the film crew and equipment.
12. Are there any behind-the-scenes documentaries or features about the making of They Call It Late Night?
While there may not be a dedicated feature-length documentary, shorter behind-the-scenes clips and interviews with the cast and crew are readily available online. These provide valuable insights into the filmmaking process and the challenges of recreating the world of late-night television. Look for extra content on streaming platforms or physical media releases of the film.