Greetings again from the darkness. Apologies in advance for any improper labels or descriptions included here. This documentary dates back fifty years to when the term "gay lifestyle" was acceptable. Further to the point, the focus is on Studio One, a West Hollywood disco for gay men. It took a while for the doors to open for other persuasions in what is now referred to as LGBTQ+. Filmmaker Marc Saltarelli really delivers a history lesson - not just for a landmark building, but for an era when gay men were sometimes arrested for simply walking down the street together.
The archival clips and photos often feature sweaty torsos dancing to disco music in a cavernous warehouse located on LaPeer Drive. So why does this particular disco warrant a documentary? Partly because of when it opened (1974), partly for how long it lasted (19 years), and mostly for the people who played and worked within those walls. In 1974, this was one of the few places gay men could hang out together and party. And oh my, did they party! We hear stories from patrons, performers, DJ's, and bartenders ... stories that include feeling safe and free and cutting loose with music, booze, and drugs (etc etc).
It wasn't all dancing and gyrating. Studio One became a key force in the Gay Rights Movement, as well as the war against AIDS. Additionally, once the "Backlot" was opened upstairs, it developed into a popular performing spot for musicians and comedians, plus as a hangout for celebrities. Boston Optometrist Scott Forbes founded the club, but the building itself had quite a prior history. In 1929 it hosted a movie camera factory, and during WWII it served as a munitions storage facility. In 1967, "The Factory" opened as a private club partially owned by actor Paul Newman. It was 1974 when Forbes opened Studio One, setting in motion a cultural shift for southern California.
When the film opens, we are informed that a real estate developer has petitioned the city to demolish the building. Those with so many memories of the place work to defend it. Ultimately, a surprising compromise is reached. Along the way, we hear from Chita Rivera, Bruce Vilanch, Liz Torrez, and others as they discuss the impact of this hot spot, and how it evolved into a stage for top performers - including Joan Rivers during her cause to help find a cure for AIDS. It was also a hangout for A-list celebrities like Cary Grant, Rock Hudson, and even Bette Davis.
Disco music and discotheques went out of style many years ago, yet the most startling revelation of the film is in the club's own policy of discrimination. When it began, Forbes envisioned this as a place for gay men to experience each other. We even learn his preference was for blond gay men. Not so welcome were people of color, lesbians, or others outside of the preferred demographics. The club (and its owner) was racist and sexist ... quite surprising from a group that society had so severely discriminated against.
The history lesson continues with a segment on the filming of CAN'T STOP THE MUSIC at the club, and how Steve Rubell was influenced by Studio One when he founded the infamous Studio 54. The emotions run deep as our talking heads recall those who were lost to the AIDS epidemic, but the smiles are present as they reminisce about the good times. The film provides an unusual look at a specific time in history ... one that shifted society.
Available on Digital Platforms beginning January 6, 2025.
