Jordan Firstman’s Club Kid Explores Unconventional Fatherhood
A party promoter faces sudden parenthood in this fresh, non-clichéd directorial debut.
1Surprise Cannes Success
Writer-director Jordan Firstman made a significant splash at the Cannes Film Festival this past May with his debut feature, Club Kid. Known previously for his pandemic-era Instagram comedy skits, Firstman transitions into long-form storytelling with a narrative that avoids the typical, sappy tropes often associated with sudden fatherhood stories in cinema.
2The Unlikely Protagonist
The story follows Peter, a New York party promoter who thrives on the city's high-octane nightlife scene. Alongside his business partner Sophie, played by Cara Delevingne, Peter manages drug-fueled events while living a hedonistic lifestyle. His world is abruptly interrupted when a woman arrives from London claiming he has a ten-year-old son.
3A Sudden Parental Shift
Edison, a woman with a thick North London accent, brings Arlo to New York following the tragic suicide of his mother. Peter, who is gay and still partying like it is 2016, is initially stunned by the revelation. He must grapple with the existential weight of caring for a child he never knew.
4Character Dynamics and Growth
Arlo, portrayed by Reggie Absolom, is a bright ten-year-old with a distinct love for Cocteau Twins and a vintage 1980s hairstyle. As Peter attempts to clean up his act, the film focuses on his struggle to grow up himself. He is a clueless naif in the world of parenting and domestic responsibility.
5Eccentric Supporting Cast
The film features a vibrant ensemble of eccentric characters who populate Peter's world. Saffron, a glamorous DJ played by Saturn Risin9, introduces Arlo to the complexities of the mixing board. Meanwhile, Nicky, an aspiring philosopher and elfin freeloader, adds a layer of quirky charm that rounds out the film's unique social atmosphere.
6Authentic Child Performance
Reggie Absolom delivers a quietly wonderful performance as Arlo, avoiding the common pitfalls of child acting. He portrays the character with genuine depth, capturing moments of deep-rooted anger and physical vulnerability, such as when he suffers an allergic reaction to dairy. He remains a real person rather than a mere movie prop.
7Humor and Narrative Tone
Firstman balances the emotional stakes with sharp, observational humor. One notable sight gag involves Peter’s slow-dawning horror after realizing he accidentally dressed Arlo in an NSFW-printed T-shirt. These moments of levity prevent the film from veering into excessive sentimentality, keeping the tone grounded and believable throughout the protagonist's difficult personal journey.
8A Realistic Conclusion
By the film's conclusion, the narrative avoids easy resolutions, opting for a delicately shaded ending. Club Kid succeeds by presenting a story that feels mighty real, focusing on the messy, unpredictable nature of human connection. It marks a promising start for Firstman, proving his ability to handle complex emotional themes with grace.
Original article: Time — Jordan Firstman’s Club Kid Explores Unconventional Fatherhood