The Best SNL Docuseries Episode Is Obviously ‘More Cowbell’

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Beyond Saturday Night”, commemorating the 50th anniversary of SNL, comprises four episodes delving into distinct tales about the iconic late-night comedy show. However, if you’re short on time, only one is a true must-watch: “More Cowbell,” which chronicles the creation and impact of the season-25 sketch featuring the recording of the Blue Oyster Cult rock hit “(Don’t Fear) the Reaper.” This episode, directed by Neil Berkeley (Gilbert, Group Therapy), is also the briefest among the four, mirroring the efficiency of the best SNL sketches.

The episode doesn’t overdo or underplay its subject matter, which can be a risk when paying tribute to a cultural icon that originated from the same corporate entity. Instead, it strikes a balance by maintaining an approach similar to the original sketch, but with a touch of humor and self-awareness. Darrell Hammond, former SNL cast member and current announcer, delivers a voice-over in a style reminiscent of the opening sketch. “On the 8th day of April 2000, a message was sent that would alter the world,” Hammond says solemnly at the start. “A message of power and conviction. Words that molded generations to come.” The scene then shifts to Will Ferrell as Bruce Dickinson, telling the SNL version of Blue Oyster Cult, “I could have used more cowbell.” This sets the tone for an episode that treats its subject with respect while acknowledging the absurdity of a man like Will Ferrell enthusiastically playing the cowbell.

In line with our anticipation, the episode delves into the process of crafting the humorous piece, which stemmed from Ferrell’s intrigue about the legendary figure who relentlessly pounded a cowbell on that iconic 1976 track. The documentary series guides us through the journey the sketch underwent to reach the screen – detailing how it was initially put aside before appearing in the episode Walken hosted, and the less-than-successful response it received during rehearsals. Occasionally, the documentary veers into overused tropes as it strives to illustrate its influence. Jimmy Fallon’s remark that the sketch was “like lightning in a bottle,” an analogy rarely, if ever, utilized in documentaries, could have been omitted without loss.

This episode of SNL delves deeper than merely exploring the opinions of its cast members on the famous catchphrase-inspiring song about creativity. Instead, it demonstrates an extraordinary fascination with cowbells. The manufacturing process of these bovine instruments is shown at Ranco, the company whose cowbell was used in the sketch featuring Will Ferrell. Additionally, the original function of the cowbell as a tool for farmers to alert them when their cattle strayed from the herd is briefly discussed. This information leaves Dave Grohl, one of many musicians interviewed for this episode, astonished: “I can’t believe how much research you’ve done on cowbells.

Intriguingly enough, what I find most captivating about this episode is how it delves deeply into discussions with the members of Blue Oyster Cult and the creators of that iconic track. Interestingly, none of these individuals share the name Bruce Dickinson, a fact the series clarifies as Ferrell had mistakenly assumed he was involved in the original creation, not just the remastering, of the track. The producers themselves can’t seem to agree on who deserves the majority of the credit for their work on the song. A fellow named David Lucas, renowned for his knack for catchy jingles, claims he was the main producer, while another chap, Murray Krugman, asserts he should be recognized as the lead. When Berkeley confronts Lucas about Krugman’s assertions, Lucas responds rather casually: “Murray just read the paper and drank coffee.” This whole scenario lends a touch of ‘This Is Spinal Tap’ humor to the proceedings; it feels like an unexpected ‘SNL’ skit unfolding within a documentary about an ‘SNL’ sketch.

Among various episodes of “Beyond Saturday Night”, the “Cowbell” story stands out as the one that best encapsulates the essence of Saturday Night Live (SNL). Other episodes like “Five Minutes”, “Written By: A Week Inside the SNL Writers Room”, and “Season 11: The Weird Year” offer a mix of fun, informative, and niche perspectives. However, it’s the “Cowbell” chronicle that demonstrates the team’s knack for transforming absurd concepts into something profoundly amusing.

Although some details from the “More Cowbell” episode can be gleaned through online research – such as on Wikipedia, or in this GQ oral history of the song or this Vulture interview with Blue Oyster Cult co-founder Donald “Buck Dharma” Roeser – experiencing the entire tale in one place, presented visually and allowing fans to revisit the sketch while learning its backstory, is a unique experience that effectively accomplishes what the SNL50 project aims for: reminding us of the show’s greatness when it reaches its peak of silliness and creativity.

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2025-01-17 20:55