Opened: February 10, 2015

Directed by: Mark Christopher

Starring: Ryan Phillippe, Salma Hayek, Neve Campbell, Mike Myers, Sela Ward, Breckin Meyer, Sherry Stringfield, Cameron Mathison, Heather Matarazzo, Skipp Sudduth, Domenick Lombardozzi, Lauren Hutton, Michael York, Ellen Albertini Dow & Mark Ruffalo

While the original version of this film is bland with an unenticing look at the titular club, the director’s cut dives into what made Studio 54 infamous.

Teenager Shane (Ryan Phillippe) gets a job as a busboy at Studio 54 in New York City and befriends coworkers Anita (Salma Hayek) and Greg (Breckin Meyer). Shane’s good looks and open sexuality help advance him in the club run by Steve Rubell (Mike Meyers).

Going against the studio, writer/director Mark Christopher recut his 1998 film to be his vision, and the result is much better. There’s an allure from the moment Shane walks into Studio 54 for the first time that lasts throughout the film. Phillippe brilliantly portrays Shane at his highs and lows, and this version allows you to see more development.

Final say: An LGBT cult classic. ★★★★☆