Focus Features has released the first trailer for “Loan,” a documentary chronicling the life and career of “Saturday Night Live” architect Lorne Michaels. The film is scheduled to be released in limited theaters on April 17th.
The documentary, directed by Academy Award winner Morgan Neville, is billed as an unprecedented behind-the-scenes look at the producers who built one of television’s most influential comedy industries. Neville previously directed the Oscar-winning “20 Feet From Stardom” and the acclaimed “Will You Be My Neighbor?”, both of which explore the lives of creative people and the cultural impact of their work.
“Lone” follows Michaels’ journey from young Canadian writer to star of the late-night sketch show “Saturday Night Live,” which has shaped American comedy and pop culture for more than 50 years. The film is based on exclusive archival materials, candid interviews, and rare behind-the-scenes insight into Michaels’ creative process. While dramatizations of early “SNL” have been considered for projects such as the 2024 film “Saturday Night,” this documentary provides direct access to Michaels’ story, his perspective and reflections in his own words.
Some of the characters featured in the film include Tina Fey, Maya Rudolph, John Mulaney, Andy Samberg, Conan O’Brien, and Chris Rock, highlighting Michaels’ lasting influence on multiple generations of performers. In the trailer, Steve Martin asks Michaels about retirement, but the “SNL” creator dodges the question. Since last year’s “SNL 50,” many fans have wondered when Michaels would leave the show, but the trailers offer no hints about the show’s future.
Watch the trailer below.
