Completed - ENGLISH - Documentary, LGBT, Art - Culture - 96 minutes
From 1974-1994, Studio One and its adjoining live music venue, The Backlot, became symbols of hope and community for gay men during tumultuous times.
Year of production : 2023 Director(s) : Marc SALTARELLI Cast : Chita RIVERA, Bruce VILANCH, Thelma HOUSTON Producer(s) : Marc SALTARELLI (Studio One Productions), Stephen ISRAEL (Studio One Productions)
Amidst the rise of gay rights, disco's heyday, and the devastating AIDS crisis, the club offered sanctuary from rampant homophobia and police oppression. It was where legends like Chita Rivera and Eartha Kitt performed, and rising stars like Roseanne Barr and Rosie O'Donnell ignited their careers.Fast forward 26 years, and as West Hollywood faces the demolition of this iconic building, a community uproar emerges to preserve its history. Through personal accounts, the documentary delves into Studio One's story against the backdrop of a progressing gay liberation clashing with 80s conservatism and the escalating AIDS nightmare. It's a testament to an era, immortalizing the club's legacy for future generations.
Country(ies) : USA
Outfest LA Film Festival 2023Austin Film Festival 2023 (Nominee Jury Award)FilmOut San Diego 2023 (Winner Freedom Award)North Carolina Gay And Lesbian Film Festival 2023 (Best Documentary Feature Film)Long Beach QFilm Festival 2023 (Best Documentary Feature)Palm Spring Fest. 2024 (Winner Best of The Fest)Hollywood Reel Independent Film festival 2024 (Winner Best LGBTQ Film)BFI Flare London 2024