Saturday Night director Jason Reitman actually wrote an SNL skit (and it's wild)

Saturday Night is making a lot of noise at festivals. The film, which is set for release on October 11, details the hectic behind-the-scenes experience of producing the first episode of Saturday Night Live in 1975.

The film's director, Jason Reitman, has some association to the first SNL generation by birth. His dad, Ivan, directed cast members like Dan Aykroyd and Bill Murray in the 1984 classic Ghostbusters. There is a bit more to Jason Reitman's pedigree than family, though. The Academy Award nominee actually spent a week as an SNL writer in 2008.

Jason Reitman's skit aired in three parts

Reitman reflected on the hectic week he spent in the writers room during a recent interview with Deadline. He admitted that he struggled to keep pace with the people who did it week in and week out, but was absolutely dazzled by the energy that went into making sketches work:

"Every time you’re like, there’s no way they’re going to make it. And then sure enough, by the time it goes, 3, 2, 1, boom, everything settles, lights pop on, and they’re live."

Reitman likened the experience of watching cast members, writers, and crew run around to watching a ballet. The guest writer also had to learn to write to the strengths of the cast members and limits of the set. He recalled writing a sketch with three different settings, and was told it was far too complex for a couple minutes of comedy.

Reitman's experience left a big impression

Fortunately, Reitman did get one of his sketches on the air. He also got a chance to direct it. The sketch in question was called "Death by Chocolate," and it aired during the tenth episode of season 33. Ashton Kutcher was the host, and the three-part sketch was actually shot beforehand.

Reitman never got a chance to take another crack at writing for SNL, but he told Deadline that his one week experience was extremely helpful when it came time for him to direct Saturday Night. He got the rhythm of the show, and the sense of panic that went into making humor that looked effortless.

"I wanted this to be an immersive roller coaster," Reitman stated. "I know what it feels like to be on the floor of 8H as they do the countdown." We can't wait to experience this roller coaster for ourselves!