Jordan Firstman’s “Club Kid” blends a scruffy New York nightlife comedy with an intimate story about family and responsibility. Firstman stars as Peter Green, a gay Jewish club promoter whose personal and professional troubles deepen when a London acquaintance brings him Arlo, the 10-year-old son he never knew he had. Arlo’s mother has died, leaving the boy without another caregiver.
Set amid New York’s queer underground, the film moves between Peter’s club scene and the new demands of fatherhood. His circle includes business partner Sophie, played by Cara Delevingne; supportive ex-boyfriend Devon, played by Nigil Whyte; and DJ Saffron, played by Saturn Risin9. Peter is also housing Nicky, a gay Azerbaijani teenager, despite his own financial difficulties.
Peter’s drug problems and stalled career have already strained his relationship with Sophie by the time Arlo arrives. The boy, meanwhile, appears more prepared for the change than his new father, though he is concealing his grief. As they adjust to life together, Peter must balance his attachment to the nightlife and its chosen-family community with the responsibilities of raising a child. Arlo’s musical talent even brings him behind the DJ decks alongside Saffron.
The review highlights the film’s character-driven humor and naturalistic performances. Firstman’s handheld approach, paired with cinematographer Adam Newport-Berra’s fluid camera work, gives the crowded scenes an intimate feel. The evolving conversations between Peter and Arlo gradually uncover their complicated emotions, while legal issues around Arlo’s cross-border adoption add further pressure to the story.
“Club Kid,” Firstman’s directorial debut, was picked up by A24 after the Cannes Film Festival. It is scheduled for a limited theatrical release on Nov. 6.
Sources: IGN.