Through a series of detailed interviews and archival footage, “Riot on the Dance Floor” vividly recounts the raw history of City Gardens, a notorious club in New Jersey, and its charismatic promoter, Randy Now. The film showcases the striking photography of Ken Salerno from Thrasher Magazine, documenting the emergence of various music scenes within this underground venue. City Gardens hosted a wide range of entertainment, from Henny Youngman’s comedy to performances by Nine Inch Nails, New Order, and Nirvana. This is a tale of musical pioneers and underdogs, highlighting how countless misfit youths discovered an unexpected sanctuary and, most importantly, the freedom that comes with full creative autonomy. – IFF Boston