Jordan Firstman Directs Film Club Kid

The new film features stars from New York City's vibrant nightlife scene.

Updated on Oct. 31, 2026 in Fashion

Graphic illustration of neon-lit turntable platters and geometric confetti, evoking the vibrant energy of New York City's underground nightlife culture.
Director Jordan Firstman’s film Club Kid, which explores found families within New York City’s underground nightlife, recently premiered at the Cannes Film Festival. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Director Jordan Firstman captures the essence of nightlife in his film Club Kid, which recently premiered at Cannes. The project earned a nomination for the Un Certain Regard award.

Why it matters

The film explores themes of found families and the connections forged within the underground club community. It highlights the authentic relationships between its cast members who are active participants in this scene.

The film features Alaska Riley and Benny Jean Pierce, both aged 27, alongside 37-year-old DJ Saturn Risin9. The production includes a child character aged 9.

The players

Jordan Firstman

He is the director of the film Club Kid who drew inspiration from his deep integration into the nightlife circuit.

Alaska Riley

A twenty-seven-year-old model and writer, she is one of the lead actors portraying the dynamics of the club scene.

Saturn Risin9

A thirty-seven-year-old DJ hailing from Los Angeles who brings his industry background to the production.

Benny Jean Pierce

She is a twenty-seven-year-old actress who collaborated with the cast to reflect real-world social bonds.

The details

Jordan Firstman cast the trio for their real-life involvement in the nightlife scene of New York City. By utilizing their personal history with found families, the actors successfully convey authentic closeness onscreen.

Timeline

  1. October 31, 2026

Industry Dynamics

The film Club Kid follows the pattern of independent projects recognized through the Un Certain Regard award selection process. It signals a continued studio interest in narratives that blend documentary-style authenticity with traditional dramatic storytelling.

Viewers interested in the film can look for updates regarding theatrical releases following its Cannes debut. The project serves as a look into the local nightlife scene that defines much of the cultural output in New York City.

The takeaway

Filmmakers often find their most compelling stories by looking toward the subcultures they inhabit daily. By prioritizing authentic relationships over traditional casting, productions can capture the genuine spirit of a community.

Further reading

Discover more about the evolving aesthetic of underground culture in the Fashion section.

Source note: This article includes information reported by The New Yorker.

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