American Swing Poster

American Swing 2009

★ 5.118 votes81 min📅 2009-10-17

"Join the party"

Dive into the electric, hedonistic energy of 1970s New York with *American Swing* (2009), a documentary that captures the rise and fall of Plato's Retreat, one of the era's most notorious nightclubs.

Director: Mathew Kaufman

Cast

Buck Henry
Buck Henry
Self
Melvin Van Peebles
Melvin Van Peebles
Self
Ed Koch
Ed Koch
Self
Jamie Gillis
Jamie Gillis
Self
Ron Jeremy
Ron Jeremy
Self
Al Goldstein
Al Goldstein
Self
Abbie Hoffman
Abbie Hoffman
Self (archive footage/uncredited)
Irwin Corey
Self (as Professor Irwin Corey)

Frequently Asked Questions

What is American Swing (2009) about?

*American Swing* (2009) traces the story of Plato's Retreat, a legendary 1970s nightclub in New York City that became synonymous with unbridled freedom and hedonism. The film documents its explosive rise as a haven for swinging singles and celebrities, as well as its eventual downfall amid changing social and cultural landscapes.

Who directed American Swing?

Mathew Kaufman directed *American Swing* (2009), a documentary that immerses viewers in the gritty, glamorous world of Plato's Retreat.

Who stars in American Swing?

The documentary features appearances from cultural icons and insiders including Buck Henry, Melvin Van Peebles, Ed Koch, Jamie Gillis, Ron Jeremy, and Al Goldstein.

Is American Swing (2009) worth watching?

*American Swing* (2009) is a fascinating watch for anyone interested in the history of nightlife, disco culture, or the evolution of New York City. While it doesn't have a widely tracked IMDb rating, its blend of archival footage and personal stories makes it a compelling dive into a pivotal era.

How long is American Swing?

The runtime of *American Swing* (2009) is 81 minutes.

About American Swing (2009) — The Rise and Fall of NYC's Infamous Plato's Retreat

Dive into the electric, hedonistic energy of 1970s New York with *American Swing* (2009), a documentary that captures the rise and fall of Plato's Retreat, one of the era's most notorious nightclubs. Directed by Mathew Kaufman, this film peels back the curtain on a time when wild nights and uninhibited revelry defined New York's social scene. Through interviews and archival footage, the documentary explores how Plato's Retreat became a symbol of freedom, excess, and cultural rebellion—before shifting tides led to its dramatic decline. The atmosphere crackles with the raw spirit of disco, the grit of the city, and the stories of the iconic figures who shaped its legacy.

*American Swing* (2009) isn't just a chronicle of a nightclub; it's a time capsule of an era that redefined nightlife and social norms. With insights from insiders like Buck Henry, Melvin Van Peebles, and Ed Koch, the film delves into the highs and lows of a venue that dared to challenge convention. The documentary balances nostalgia with a critical eye, revealing how Plato's Retreat both thrived and struggled against the backdrop of a rapidly changing city.