DARK CITY BENEATH THE BEAT is an audiovisual experience that defines the soundscape of Baltimore city. Inspired by an all original Baltimore club music soundtrack, the film spotlights local club artists, DJs, dancers, producers, and Baltimore’s budding creative community as they are realizing their life dreams. Rhythmic and raw, these stories illustrate the unique characteristics of the city’s landscape and social climate through music, poetry, and dance. From the city’s social climate to its creative LGBTQ community, "Dark City Beneath The Beat" showcases Baltimore club music as a positive subculture in a city overshadowed by trauma, drugs, and violence.

The film will screen with Heather María Ács' FLOURISH, a narrative short that follows a non-binary couple as they navigate non-monogamy at a queer dance party, a short documentary about LA's infamous A CLUB CALLED RHONDA, and A SONIC PULSE, a documentary short commissioned by Resident Advisor exploring the different ways deaf people connect with electronic music.

The drive-in will also feature a radio pre-show mixed and voiced by Austin DJ La Morena.

Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, Contrast Film Festival and the Museum of Human Achievement request that all attendees remain in their vehicle for the duration of the program. Restrooms will not be readily available, so please plan accordingly. In an effort to limit environmental impact, we also ask that you plan to view the film with your vehicle's engine off. In the event of cold weather, we suggest you bring blankets and whatever else you need to comfortably view the program in an unheated environment.