For anyone who has ever made coffee late at night just to catch NBC’s “Saturday Night Live,” the high-energy feel of “Saturday Night” will resonate.

Directed by Jason Reitman, this fast-paced comedy (★★★½ out of four; rated R; currently in select theaters, with a nationwide release on Friday) provides a dramatized glimpse into the frantic 90 minutes leading up to the inaugural “SNL” broadcast in 1975. (The film’s wide release on Oct. 11 marks 49 years since the show premiered.) Initially, the film appears somewhat chaotic as the stressed producer Lorne Michaels (portrayed by the remarkable Gabriel LaBelle from “The Fabelmans”) scrambles to steer this sketch-comedy venture away from impending disaster. Yet, rather than becoming overwhelming, the brisk pace eventually allows viewers to appreciate the undeniable talents of both familiar faces and newcomers assembled by Reitman to recreate a television phenomenon.

As the clock nears 10 p.m., Michaels finds himself managing a bustling studio filled with stand-up comedians, musical guests, his young Not Ready for Prime Time Players, and the guest host, the legendary George Carlin (played by Matthew Rhys), all while grappling with the uncertainty of what the show really is. This unpredictability raises concerns for late-night programming expert Dick Ebersol (Cooper Hoffman), who aims to prevent a fellow NBC executive (Willem Dafoe) from opting for a rerun of Johnny Carson’s “Tonight Show” at the last moment.

Disasters are frequent: A lighting fixture nearly falls on John Belushi (Matt Wood), who still remains unsigned and significantly heightens Lorne’s anxiety. The unpredictable comedian Andy Kaufman (Nicholas Braun) wanders about with no direction while Jim Henson (also Braun), the puppeteer behind the “Muppets,” searches for his missing script. Head writer Michael O’Donoghue (Tommy Dewey) is caught in a heated battle with a no-nonsense network censor (Catherine Curtin). Moreover, two cast members, opera-trained Garrett Morris (Lamorne Morris) and commercial veteran Jane Curtin (Kim Matula), are left pondering their roles and purpose.

At the core of “Saturday Night” is LaBelle’s impressive portrayal. Although the success of “SNL” as a cultural touchstone is well known, marking its 50th season, viewers become invested in Michaels’ challenging journey through an evening filled with increasingly ridiculous hurdles, including irate phone calls from an upset Carson and navigating a blood-spraying prank.

Reitman’s casting is superb, particularly in selecting actors who truly embody comedic pioneers rather than merely imitate them. Cory Michael Smith, recognized for his role as the Riddler in “Gotham,” perfectly captures Chevy Chase’s blend of bravado and vulnerability. Dylan O’Brien and Ella Hunt bring to life the mischievous charisma of Dan Aykroyd and Gilda Radner, respectively. Morris parallels his real-life counterpart’s effortless charm, while J.K. Simmons shines as Milton Berle, commanding the screen. While none have replicated Belushi’s dynamic physical comedy, Wood effectively channels the “Animal House” icon’s distinctive energy.

Along with co-writer Gil Kenan, Reitman has expertly crafted a witty script; both have notable experience reviving the “Ghostbusters” franchise, but “Saturday Night” stands as their true trip down memory lane.

Talents like O’Brien and Hunt may attract younger viewers who are unfamiliar with the classic “SNL” episodes. However, the film will resonate most with those who experienced the show during its formative and boundary-pushing era, recalling Kaufman’s unforgettable “Mighty Mouse” performance or Garrett Morris’ musical numbers — both fondly referenced in the movie. (This film consistently delivers more laughs than any recent “SNL” episode.)

“Saturday Night” serves as a reminder of a memorable night that could have turned disastrous but instead became an outstanding success, celebrating the enchanting results of youthful innovation mixed with delightful chaos.