In 1989 the Berlin Wall came down, and a once-divided city became whole again-at least in theory.
The old warehouses and abandoned shops of East Berlin were revived, many of them becoming electro clubs catering to Berlin’s famous youthful nightlife. Three young men became bouncers at these clubs, developing a bizarre level of underground celebrity. David Dietl’s Berlin Bouncer celebrates these three men, the sharp artistic edges of Berlin, and the way in which popular culture can bring people together better than any legislation.
Frank Künster, Sven Marquardt, and Smiley Baldwin all have different stories. Künster came to Berlin to study, got a casual job as a bouncer and never looked back. Marquardt was raised in the East, and quickly became immured in the cultural life of the reunited city, carving out a career as a photographer and club bouncer. Baldwin was an American GI guarding the wall, who decided to stay.
Dietl gives us a loving portrait of these three eccentric, fascinating men, as well as of the city he clearly adores. Each of the clubs they have looked after have played important roles in the lives of those who work there, and those who party there. Politics is put aside on the dance-floor as Berliners of all colours and creeds immerse themselves in music, drugs, drink, and underground culture. The interactions of the regulars with their beloved bouncers are so effusive it becomes clear that Künster, Marquardt, and Baldwin are often the biggest attraction in themselves.
Berlin Bouncer is a joyous and fascinating documentary about one of the world’s great cities: surprisingly intimate, quirky, witty, and observant. This is sure to be become a cult classic.
Berlin Bouncer screens as part of the German Film Festival which opens on 2nd June at Palace Nova Eastend and Prospect.
Click here for screening times and to book tickets.
quirky and delightful 4 stars
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