Magic City Director Charles Todd on Balancing Fantasy vs. Reality in STARZ Docuseries

Director Charles Todd pulls back the curtain on the visual storytelling behind Magic City: An American Fantasy, the new five-part STARZ docuseries exploring Atlanta’s legendary cultural hub.

In this interview, Todd reveals how his creative thesis — “the fantasy of men set against the reality of women” — shaped the series’ look, tone, and focus. He discusses weaving together music, politics, family, and the stories of past and present dancers into a cohesive narrative that honors the club’s place as a community cornerstone.

Todd also shares his first Magic City experience — a night out with his then-girlfriend (now wife) — and how that personal moment eventually came full circle into directing the definitive story of the “Black Studio 54.”

📺 Magic City: An American Fantasy premieres on STARZ August 15, 2025.

Jill Munroe is a Los Angeles-bred entertainment journalist, producer, and host. You can follow her on all social media @StilettoJill or check out https://jillmunroe.com/

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