Jordan Firstman takes on the dual role of director and lead actor as Peter, a charismatic New York club promoter whose life is a blur of parties, excesses, and a casual disregard for a healthy routine. Peter's days typically begin in the late afternoon, recovering from the previous night's indulgences, and are spent in a cycle of self-imposed isolation, avoiding deeper emotions and a sense of unfulfilled affection.
His carefully constructed, albeit unhealthy, existence is abruptly shattered when Arlo, his 10-year-old son whom he never knew existed, appears at his doorstep. Peter, completely unprepared for the responsibilities of fatherhood, initially struggles to connect with the child. The film masterfully portrays his awkward attempts at parenting, from navigating simple conversations to finding common ground beyond traditional authority, fostering a relationship built on complicity and friendship.
This unexpected new role forces Peter to confront his own vulnerabilities and the emptiness of his prior lifestyle. As Firstman explains, "To grow, he must find a way to give up a lifestyle that no longer brings him much." The presence of Arlo provides a new purpose, compelling Peter to prioritize self-care so he can, in turn, care for his son. Young Reggie Absolom, in his debut film role as Arlo, shares a remarkable on-screen chemistry with Firstman. Absolom noted his personal connection to the character, stating, "I easily recognized myself in Arlo because he is discreet and thoughtful, and we both have rather unusual musical tastes for children our age."
Firstman’s commitment to authenticity extends to the film's vibrant supporting cast. To populate Peter’s nocturnal world, the director sought out real personalities from New York’s queer club scene, including DJs, artists, and trans individuals. This approach injects the film with a unique energy and a genuine portrayal of the community. One notable example is Saturn Risin9, a DJ and artist discovered by Firstman in a club, who plays Saffron and introduces Arlo to mixing.
Supermodel and actress Cara Delevingne also features as Sophie, Peter's business partner. Firstman found a resonance between Delevingne's publicly shared experiences with addiction and the challenges faced by her character, further enhancing the film's raw honesty. Firstman emphasizes the profound impact of human connection, asserting, "I wanted to show how much our relationship with others matters in our own development." This belief is reflected in the film's eclectic cast, blending seasoned professionals with newcomers and non-actors.
"Club Kid" doesn't shy away from weighty themes such as depression, addiction, and self-worth. It explores the universal experience of feeling stuck and lacking the energy to change. Peter's journey is not one of sudden transformation but a chaotic and gradual process of learning and self-reflection, mirroring the often-non-linear path of adulthood. The film ultimately argues that growth can come from the most unexpected places and people, transcending traditional notions of family and identity.