TL;DR
- Jewel’s Catch One became a sanctuary for Black queer communities.
- The documentary highlights Jewel’s impact during the AIDS crisis.
- Catch One evolved from a disco to a cultural institution.
- Jewel built community support systems when others turned away.
- The film features celebrity appearances and rich archival footage.
In the heart of Los Angeles, one nightclub stood out as a beacon of hope and acceptance during a time when the world seemed determined to exclude. Jewel Thais-Williams, the visionary behind Catch One, transformed a simple disco into a lifeline for Black queer communities. Opened in 1973, Catch One became more than just a nightlife spot; it was a sanctuary, a cultural institution, and a vibrant gathering place that welcomed everyone from Madonna to Sharon Stone.
As director C. Fitz delved into the life of this remarkable woman for the documentary Jewel’s Catch One, she faced a shocking reality: “There’s hardly anything about this woman online. Imagine that,” Fitz shared during an interview at the Provincetown International Film Festival. What began as a brief profile quickly morphed into a full-length documentary, celebrating Jewel’s incredible life and the community she nurtured.
This June, as the film makes its Pride Month rerelease, it serves as a poignant reminder of Jewel’s legacy, especially as we approach the one-year anniversary of her passing on July 7, 2025. The timing couldn’t be more fitting, coinciding with both Pride Month and Juneteenth, highlighting the intersection of Black queer joy and resilience.
Jewel’s Catch One was not just a nightclub; it was an ecosystem of support. Fitz noted, “She had the club, she had a vegan restaurant downstairs, and she has the nonprofit health clinic next door.” Jewel was not just an entrepreneur; she was a community leader, responding to needs rather than chasing profits. In a time when Los Angeles nightlife was heavily segregated, she opened her doors to everyone, creating a space where all were welcome.
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During the devastating AIDS crisis, when many venues turned away those affected, Jewel did the opposite. “She would turn the parking lot into a soup kitchen,” Fitz said, recounting how Jewel mobilized the community to provide meals and support to those in need. “It was a very painful time for Jewel. A lot of her patrons and friends were just dying, yet she still stood up and got them help in any way she could think of.” Jewel became a mother figure to countless individuals, proving that love and community could thrive even in the darkest of times.
The documentary captures the essence of this vibrant history through rich archival footage, photographs, and personal stories. Fitz emphasized the importance of preserving this legacy, noting that many of the ballroom competitions featured in the film also served as AIDS fundraisers, highlighting a chapter of queer resistance that often goes overlooked. “Those balls that raised money for the AIDS crisis, that was so important,” she remarked.
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Jewel’s impact extended beyond her nightclub. She built support systems when mainstream resources failed to reach Black LGBTQ+ communities. “The funds didn’t trickle down to her community,” Fitz explained, leading Jewel to create her own avenues for assistance. Her commitment to inclusivity and community-building is what made Catch One extraordinary.
As we celebrate the legacy of Jewel Thais-Williams and the reopening of her iconic club, we are reminded of the power of community and the importance of keeping our doors open to everyone. Jewel’s Catch One is not just a look back at a beloved institution; it is a call to action for all of us to build inclusive spaces where no one is left outside. In the words of Fitz, “The doors are open to everybody.” It’s a simple idea, but one that resonates deeply in today’s world.
Jewel’s Catch One is now available to rent or purchase on digital HD, cable, and satellite video-on-demand platforms across North America via Freestyle Digital Media. Don’t miss the chance to witness this powerful story of resilience and love in the face of adversity.