"The Rebirth of Chicago Cool" Documentary Short | Directed by Konee Rok

In the early 2000's Chicago's nightlife scene began to change, as the city began enforcing strict venue regulations pressuring several longstanding nightclubs to close their doors.

These events directly affected club creator, Joe Russo, who's highly successful Funky Buddha Lounge & Sinibar night spots were well known for spearheading racial integration in Chicago nightlife during the mid 1990's.

When Russo is forced to shut down his business, he leaves the country in search of new direction, but it's only a matter of time before his inner-calling inspires him to return to his hometown and take on the challenges of creating a new venue under the same meticulous laws that pushed him out.

"The Rebirth of Chicago Cool" is the story of how "The Shrine", a place celebrated for hosting shows by legendary & contemporary hip hop & soul artists, was born. 

Directed by http://KoneeRok.com