This underrated gem chronicles the rivalry between Jay Leno and David Letterman

The film captures the legendary battle for late-night supremacy with wit and gravitas

Lost and Found

Each person has their own favourite Jimmy, it’s either Kimmel or Fallon but never both. Conan O'Brien may have pivoted to podcasts and perhaps, headlining that oddball travel show but the highlight of his CV remains being one of the most compelling hosts on TV. No one loves Meyers, everyone misses Trevor Noah and few may have managed to pull off a remarkable second innings like Jon Steward. Yes, you’ve guessed it! We’re talking exclusively about those TV hosts who’ve ruled over late night television with their astounding wit, fluid interviewing skills and that distinguished chutzpah. And in today’s episode of Lost and Found, we’re delving into a film that’s based on the real life rivalry between two talk show hosts in the 90s – yes, we’re alluding to the 1996 film, The Late Shift.

Now, if you’re a fan of late-night television, or simply love a behind-the-scenes showdown, this one’s for you. The Late Shift chronicles the legendary battle for late-night supremacy between Jay Leno and David Letterman in the early 1990s—a conflict so dramatic it almost feels scripted. But trust me, this story is 100% real, and the film captures it with wit and gravitas in equal measure.

The film offers an engrossing peek behind the velvet curtains of late-night television. In the early ’90s, when the legendary Johnny Carson was about to retire from The Tonight Show the industry buzzed with a fierce rivalry between two giants: Jay Leno, the cheeky everyman, and David Letterman, the quirky, rebellious innovator.

The film takes us deep into this cutthroat world, where networks play chess with their biggest stars, loyalty is an illusion, and every decision comes with consequences. It’s more than just a battle for ratings—it’s a high-stakes game of power, ambition, and betrayal. And here’s the kicker: even though it’s about the 1990s, its themes are universal and still relevant today. Particularly with the desperation for eyeballs in a world of infinite options making it propor tionately more competitive and fierce today.

It also helps that the performances are on point. John Michael Higgins delivers an uncanny Letterman, nailing his idiosyncrasies and charm while subtly showcasing the insecurities beneath his quirky exterior. Daniel Roebuck balances the geniality and ambition of Leno, making you root for him even when his actions are sometimes questionable.

The scene-stealer here is undoubtedly Kathy Bates as Leno’s razor-sharp manager, Helen Kushnick. Her intensity is magnetic and her performance is layered with a rawness that keeps you glued to the screen. Bates was so good, she even snagged an Emmy nomination for this role.

The supporting cast, including Bob Balaban as NBC executive Warren Littlefield, is equally stellar. Their chemistry and interplay elevate the film and it feels authentic and even the bizarre situations the characters find themselves in, seem believable.

The magic of The Late Shift lies in its storytelling. Director Betty Thomas crafts a narrative that feels as gripping as a political thriller, but with the breezy wit of a comedy-drama. The script, adapted from Bill Carter’s book, is razor-sharp, balancing humour with moments of real tension.

The film is evenly paced and doesn’t just chronicle events but also immerses you in the emotional stakes. Whether you’re watching Letterman’s growing frustration or Leno’s quiet manoeuvring, you just can’t take your eyes off the screen.

Even if you’re not a late-night TV buff, the film’s appeal is universal. It’s about ambition, loyalty, and the price of success. Themes that resonate as much now as they did back in 1996.

The film slipped through the cracks as it was a TV movie, or maybe, it just got overshadowed by its real-life counterparts. But it’s time to give this gem some much deserved love. It’s available to watch on Jio Cinema with OTTplay in India. So grab your popcorn and dive into this engrossing slice of television history.

Well that's all for this episode of Lost and Found, will be back with another episode soon. Until then it's your host Nikhil signing out.

Aaj kya dekhoge OTTplay se poocho

Written by Kunal Guha

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