Jewel's Catch One
Synopsis
ONE WOMAN, ONE CITY, NO FEAR, 42 YEARS
JEWEL’S CATCH ONE documents the oldest African-American owned disco in America and establishes the legacy of businesswoman, activist, and healer, Jewel Thais-Williams, who stood up against hate and discrimination for 42 years.
The story of Jewel and “The Catch” celebrates four decades of music, fashion, celebrity, and activism that helped change the course of our country by breaking down racial, social, and cultural barriers. One of the original safe spaces for both the LGBT and African-American communities, The Catch also served as a refuge for many during the AIDS crisis. As her club grew to become known as the “unofficial Studio 54 of the West Coast,” Jewel became a national model for how to combat discrimination and serve the less fortunate.
The film is a lush visual and musical journey highlighted by exclusive interviews with Sharon Stone, Madonna, Thelma Houston, Evelyn “Champagne“ King, Sandra Bernhard, Thea Austin, Jenifer Lewis, Representative Maxine Waters and Bonnie Pointer. CCH Pounder narrates this historically important film.
Cast & Credits
Cast:
Jewel Thais-Williams
Madonna (Evita)
Sharon Stone (Basic Instinct)
Sandra Bernhard (The King of Comedy)
CCH Pounder (The Shield)
Crew:
Written, Produced & Directed by C. Fitz (Queer Eye)
Music by Bonnie Pointer, Thelma Houston, Andra Day, KC and The Sunshine Band, Sylvester, Jennifer Holiday, Evelyn “Champagne” King, Thea Austin (Snap!) and Peaches & Herb.
Festivals & Awards
Best of the Fest: Palm Springs Int’l Film Festival (2017)
Audience Choice Award: Melbourne Documentary Film Festival (2017)
Best Documentary Feature: Boston LGBT Film Festival (2017)
Reviews
“An undeniably loving documentary tribute to the club and its longtime owner Jewel.” – VARIETY
“An eye-opening look at a cultural landmark.” – THE HOLLYWOOD REPORTER
“Though some audiences may come to the film for the music of the time or the sentimental value the Catch may possess, 10 minutes in, they’ll be introduced to… Jewel, and how she gave up herself… When they wake up the next day, they’ll be inspired to do something in their own neighborhood, something to better the world.” – LOS ANGELES TIMES