Cruising

Cruising is a provocative crime thriller set in the late 1970s directed by William Friedkin and starring Al Pacino. Released in 1980, the movie presents a gritty exploration of New York City's underground gay scene while navigating the waters of a serial killer investigation.

The film revolves around the life of Steve Burns (Al Pacino), a young, ambitious New York police officer who is surprisingly assigned to a complex case. The city's gay community, particularly those into S&M and leather, is being terrorized by a serial killer. With no leads or suspects in sight, the police department turns to one of their own, Burns, to pose as a member of the community and infiltrate the scene. The mission is clear - to evoke the killer and unmask him.

Al Pacino, known for his uncanny ability to capture various character experiences convincingly, delivers a masterful performance as Burns. A quintessential 'straight' man in both senses, Burns plunges headlong into a counter-culture that appears exotic and dangerous to him and the audience.

As Burns goes deeper undercover, the movie's narrative delves into the dark and hidden corners of human psyche and desire. Alfred Sole's production design effectively brings to life the gritty, dingy settings of the controversial underground leather bars. His work culminates in a vivid portrayal of sultry neon-lit nights filled with provocative leather and chains.

Karen Allen plays Nancy, Burns' naive and unsuspecting girlfriend, providing a stark contrast to his undercover life. While Nancy remains oblivious to his secret mission, Burns wrestles with the duality of his existence, possibly leading to a crisis of identity.

Paul Sorvino adds another layer of complexity with his portrayal of Captain Edelson. Being Burns' superior, Edelson bears his share of the story's moral weight. His character subtly engages with the grey areas of law enforcement while tracking the ruthless killer.

Cruising takes its plot beyond that of a straightforward crime story, delving deep into the intricate domains of human behavior, sexual identity, and societal prejudice. The screenplay masterfully manipulates the audience’s understanding of character motivations, constantly challenging preconceptions and judgment. One can clearly see the directorial prowess of William Friedkin, the Oscar-winning director of The Exorcist and The French Connection, in his nuanced handling of such a controversial theme.

Cinematographer James A. Contner effectively uses light and shadow, creating an eerie, tense ambiance that further enhances the suspense and mystery. The violent sequences are graphic, reflecting the gruesomeness of the murders and the undertones of aggression that pervade the script.

The film's soundtrack is no less impactful. Composed by Jack Nitzsche, it uses an eclectic mix of genres, complementing the movie's diverse and intense atmosphere. It uses several authentic songs from the era, aptly encapsulating the essence of the time period.

Cruising also subtly explores the theme of societal pressures on sexual identities and the resulting psychological implications. It prompts questions about the costs of remaining in the closet and the struggles faced by those defying conventional norms.

On its release, the movie faced tremendous controversy due to its explicit representation of the gay subculture and the violent set-ups. The graphic scenes triggered significant criticism not only from censors but also gay activists and advocacy groups. Capturing this opposition, Cruising remains a testament to the era's social tensions and polarities.

Despite the immediate backlash, the film has received closer evaluation in recent years, leading some to acknowledge Friedkin's daring portrayal of a marginalized community, even as it remains a topic of debate.

Overall, Cruising is an unsettling exploration of a person's dual life, effectively using the framework of a crime investigation. It's a gritty and realistic portrayal of a slice of New York City life. The movie keeps you on edge with its disturbing narrative, suspenseful plot twists, and Pacino's compelling portrayal of a man on the edge. It doesn't shy away from unravelling taboos and manages to leave a lasting impression. With stellar performances and a bold and controversial premise, Cruising is certainly a significant film for those interested in late 20th-century American cinema.