‘Good People’ Review: Milcho Manchevski’s Haunting Documentary Revisits the Kočani Nightclub Fire Through Survivors’ Eyes

VeniceNews newsroom brief · 2h ago · 1 min read · via variety.com

On March 16, 2025, a fire broke out at the Pulse nightclub in the small North Macedonian town of Kočani, injuring hundreds and killing 63 people due to burn damage, smoke inhalation and other physical traumas sustained while attendees scrambled to flee through the venue’s sole ex

The documentary "Good People" by Milcho Manchevski is a haunting and poignant exploration of the 2025 Kočani nightclub fire, which resulted in one of the deadliest club fires in recent history. By focusing on the survivors' accounts, Manchevski masterfully crafts a narrative that not only honors the victims but also sheds light on the human experience of trauma and resilience. This approach allows the audience to connect emotionally with the story, making it a powerful and thought-provoking watch.

The fact that this documentary is garnering attention now, nearly a year after the incident, speaks to the lasting impact of the tragedy on the community and the wider cultural landscape. The nightclub fire, which claimed 63 lives, is a stark reminder of the importance of venue safety and emergency preparedness. As the entertainment industry continues to grapple with issues of crowd control, security, and patron safety, "Good People" serves as a sobering reminder of the devastating consequences of neglect and complacency.

As the documentary makes its way to various film festivals and platforms, it's essential to watch for how it sparks conversations about accountability, grief, and healing. Will "Good People" inspire changes in safety protocols or emergency response procedures in nightclubs and venues worldwide? Keep an eye on how this documentary resonates with audiences and whether it leads to tangible reforms in the entertainment industry. The Venice film festival, with its reputation for showcasing innovative and thought-provoking cinema, is an ideal platform for "Good People" to reach a broader audience and ignite meaningful discussions.

Originally reported by variety.com. VeniceNews adds analysis for culture, style & media readers.

Originally reported by variety.com. VeniceNews curates and briefs the culture, style & media stories that matter. Our editorial policy →
Get the daily venice signal:

More from VeniceNews

Across the eCorp newsroom network

Part of the eCorp network