Munich Clubs Navigate a Pandemic Year in ‘Closed Society’ Documentary

As the COVID-19 pandemic rattled industries worldwide, the nightlife industry took the most brutal hit, closing first and reopening last. This harsh reality has been captured in Closed Society, a 90-minute documentary produced by What The Film. 

Following four renowned Munich nightclubs – P1, Harry Klein, Backstage, and Milla – the film delves into their journey as they adapt to the new normal. 

Filmed one year after the pandemic-induced lockdown, the Closed Society documentary showcases how clubbing spaces fought back against financial insolvency. 

Beyond the deserted dance floors, the film brings to light the life that unfolded behind the shuttered clubs – from tearing down walls to building TV studios and filing for funding.

As the industry struggles to reinvent itself, Closed Society uncovers its cultural identity in a world silenced by the pandemic. 

Brought to life by director Hans von Brockhausen and author Max Weishaupt, the film highlights the personal stories of those directly impacted by the shutdown. 

At its core, the documentary is about the personal trials of the people behind the venues. It highlights the struggles of club executives, bartenders, artists, and others, who found solidarity in the shared hardship.

The Closed Society documentary is a powerful commentary on the socio-political implications of the pandemic, highlighting how restrictive measures have strained the nightlife industry. 

It also underscores the sector’s perceived lack of political support during these challenging times.