König Der Nacht

Nachtresidenz Düsseldorf is today one of Germany’s most renowned and oldest nightclubs, having overcome numerous challenges since its founding in 2000. The former cinema on Königsallee attracts guests from across North Rhine-Westphalia and Germany—a metropolitan area of 11 million people—who leave everyday life behind in extravagant outfits and with plenty of champagne.

However, digitalization and the resulting changes in nightlife culture make it increasingly difficult to maintain the club’s operations, culture, and flow of visitors. Nevertheless, CEO and bon vivant Marcel Oelbracht and his team manage to keep Nachtresidenz appealing through innovative concepts, spectacular show performances, and international acts. He is our central figure, a man balancing genius and madness—or sound and intoxication. He is our King of the Night.

Der König Der Nacht is a TWIST Filmproduktion about a man who risks everything to gain recognition. This factual entertainment documentary explores the challenges Marcel faces along the way, including a difficult childhood, his marriage, financial struggles, the fight for survival, and his relentless thirst for success.

A True Rollercoaster Ride.

In March 2020, Nachtresidenz was forced to close due to the Covid-19 pandemic. This is where the journey begins, offering an intensive behind-the-scenes look. The film captures the emotional rollercoaster that Marcel and his team experience on the path to reopening and their efforts to keep the business running. Numerous obstacles—renovations, thefts, organized crime, drug incidents, and even a ceiling collapse during operations—push Marcel and his team repeatedly to the brink of despair.

The film also provides insight into Marcel’s private life and his supportive wife, as well as intimate moments with core team members, captured authentically and without staging. Through several chapters, viewers are introduced to a world full of ambiguities, led by an entertaining and enigmatic protagonist. It is a world of contradictions, fears, and immense passion. Der König Der Nacht is close, independent, and a portrait of a disappearing culture.

The production highlights authentic facets of nightlife and in no way serves as advertising for the club or its operators. On the contrary, it was important for us to capture critical perspectives and present an honest picture. Only through this approach can a realistic portrayal of this world and its people be achieved.

Marcel Oelbracht in der Nachtresdienz bei den Filmaufnahmen der Filmproduktion Düsseldorf

The Birthplace of Drama.

Nachtresidenz in Düsseldorf is a versatile venue with a rich history. Originally built in 1907 as the Residenz-Theater, it was converted into a cinema three years later and ultimately transformed into a trendy nightclub in 2000.

Spanning a generous 1,800 square meters, Nachtresidenz features four distinct areas—Lounge, Library, Club, and Dome Hall—each offering unique experiences.

Since 2015, Marcel Oelbracht has been steering the venue as CEO and co-owner. A significant milestone was reached in November 2021 when he acquired 51% of the shares of DE Gastronomiebetriebs GmbH, which includes Nachtresidenz. This move solidified Marcel Oelbracht’s position as a key player in Düsseldorf’s hospitality and nightlife scene.