The Late Show 1977
"The nicest movie you'll ever see about murder and blackmail."
Robert Benton's *The Late Show (1977)* delivers a clever, offbeat mystery that blends crime with comedy against the sun-soaked backdrop of Los Angeles.
Director: Robert Benton
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is The Late Show (1977) about?
The film follows an aging private eye in Los Angeles who investigates the murder of his old friend, uncovering a labyrinth of blackmail, stolen stamps, and personal betrayals along the way. As he pieces together the clues, he teams up with an unconventional ally whose street smarts and sharp tongue challenge his old-school methods.
Who directed The Late Show?
Robert Benton directed *The Late Show*. Known for his sharp storytelling and humanistic approach to storytelling, Benton crafts a mystery that's as much about character as it is about plot.
Who stars in The Late Show?
The Late Show features Art Carney and Lily Tomlin as its lead duo, supported by Bill Macy, Eugene Roche, and Joanna Cassidy in key roles.
Is The Late Show (1977) worth watching?
With its clever blend of crime and comedy, *The Late Show* offers a refreshing take on the neo-noir genre that feels both timeless and distinctly of its era. It's a rare film where the dialogue crackles and the characters feel real, even as the plot twists grow increasingly absurd—perfect for fans of witty, atmospheric mysteries.
How long is The Late Show?
The Late Show runs for 93 minutes.
🎥 Trailer
About The Late Show (1977) — A Gritty, Witty Neo-Noir with Art Carney and Lily Tomlin
Robert Benton's *The Late Show (1977)* delivers a clever, offbeat mystery that blends crime with comedy against the sun-soaked backdrop of Los Angeles. The story follows an aging private eye, a man whose best days are behind him, as he digs into the murder of an old colleague—only to uncover a tangled web of deceit involving stolen stamps, blackmail, and a betrayal that cuts deeper than mere cash or possessions. With a sharp script and a tone that balances wit with noir-inspired melancholy, the film explores themes of loyalty, fading glory, and the uneasy alliance between justice and vengeance. Art Carney and Lily Tomlin shine as mismatched partners in this unconventional detective tale, where every clue feels like a punchline and every shadow hides a smirk.
Crafted with a dry, observational humor that feels decades ahead of its time, *The Late Show* is less about solving a case and more about savoring the quirks of its characters. The chemistry between Carney's weary but determined detective and Tomlin's resourceful neighbor-turned-informant crackles with natural charisma, grounding the film's eccentric plot in emotional authenticity. Shot through with a golden-hour glow, it's a movie that feels like a late-night confessional whispered between two people who've seen too much—and yet still believe in doing the right thing.