Jordan Firstman, known for his sharp-witted social media presence and a memorable, self-parodying role in Rotting in the Sun, is stepping behind the camera for his first feature film. Titled Club Kid, the project will see Firstman not only direct but also write and star in the leading role. The film has been selected for the prestigious Un Certain Regard section of the upcoming Cannes Film Festival, a significant nod for a debut director.
A Story of Unexpected Fatherhood in the Queer Underground
Set against the backdrop of New York City's vibrant but fading underground party scene, Club Kid follows a nightlife promoter whose life is thrown into chaos when he is forced to care for a son he never knew he had. The narrative promises to merge the world of queer subculture with the emotional complexities of sudden parenthood, all filtered through what is described as Firstman's signature 'chaotic and emotionally sharp' storytelling style.
Notable Cast and Crew On Board
Firstman is joined by a strong cast that includes Cara Delevingne, Diego Calva (Babylon), Eldar Isgandarov, and newcomer Reggie Absolom. The film's aesthetic is being shaped by cinematographer Adam Newport-Berra, who recently won an Emmy for his work on the acclaimed series The Bear. The decision to shoot on 35mm film suggests a commitment to a distinct visual texture that will complement its New York setting.
From Online Fame to Auteur Cinema
Firstman's career path has been distinctly modern. He first gained a large following on Instagram and TikTok with his 'Impressions' series, where he humorously personified inanimate objects or abstract concepts. This led to acting roles, with his performance in Sebastián Silva’s 2023 film Rotting in the Sun earning him wider recognition within the queer community and film circles. With Club Kid, he takes a decisive step from performer to creator, taking full ownership of a story that seems deeply personal and culturally specific.
The film was financed by Topic Studios and co-financed by Stay Gold, with producers including Oscar-winner Alex Coco (Anora). After its premiere at Cannes, UTA Independent Film Group and Charades will handle its distribution, signaling confidence in the project's potential to find an audience.
