There comes a point when grown-ups must act their age and when partying hard on a regular basis is not the way to live. When a child comes into the picture, life changes. Club Kid has that theme written all over it. The film begins in 2016 in Brooklyn and then jumps ahead to ten years later. The film is written and directed by Jordan Firstman who is also the lead in the film. Club Kid is joyful and touching. It has attained lots of press at several premiere festivals this year, including praise earned at its world premiere at the Cannes Film Festival in May. The film has also received tons of buzz at other festivals ranging from Toronto International Film Festival to New York Film Festival to BFI London Film Festival to Chicago International Film Festival and more. Club Kid, a story about the life of a New Yorker having to learn how to be a dad, is an inspiring journey.
The film’s main character is Peter (Firstman), and his job is a club promoter. He gets by even though he does drugs and parties hard. Peter struggles with relationships, including the one with his assistant Sophie, played by Cara Delevingne. Peter also has a friend that lives with him, Nicky, played by Eldar Isgandarov. Nicky is a couch bum, and Peter must encourage him daily to do something productive.
The film displays what it is like to be constantly partying and mixing with the wrong crowd. At the same time though, Peter manages to get by. That all changes when a young boy shows up at his door. That boy is named Arlo, played by Reggie Absolom. He is the son that Peter never knew he had. In a heartbeat, Peter becomes determined to learn how to raise his son. Arlo is from the UK which presents some legal issues. While Peter works on being a good dad, he is also seeking the answers to what it would take to have Arlo permanently.
The film is written with wonderful bonds throughout. The dynamic connecting Firstman and Absolom is special. The common ground of music and culture vibes well in the film, especially because Arlo has a fascination with becoming a DJ. The musical component is referenced in the film’s title as is the parenting connection. I loved the part of the story when Peter continues to grow in his parental role. He slowly begins to give up drugs and parties which isn’t easy and leads to some vivid, emotional moments in the film.
What I admire the most about Club Kid is how it highlights what it means to sacrifice. Parents do so much and give up so much to ensure their children have a fulfilling life. The story also has scenes in which Peter learns how to better himself due to the presence of and fascinations with his son, Arlo. This is a father-and-son tale that is filled with musical moments and positivity. Three-and-a-half out of four stars for Club Kid.
