By Chlotrudis Independent Film Society
Rating: 4.5 cats
Director: Carmen Emmi
Starring: Christian Cooke | Maria Dizzia | Russell Tovey | Sam Asa Brownstein | Tom Blyth
Year: 2025
Running time: 95
IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt27550504/reference/
Michael says: “In a rare moment of synergy, my choice for the best film at the festival was also awarded the Narrative Audience Award at the Provincetown International Film Festival this year. This debut feature tells the story of Lucas, a young police officer in Upstate New York during the late 90s, working undercover to entrap gay men soliciting se in pubic restrooms. Trouble is, Lucas is a deeply closeted gay man, struggling with grief over the recent death of father, and the sudden feelings that fill him for one of his targets who he lets escape arrest. Director Carmen Emmi beautifully captures the interior anxiety from which Lucas suffers by using images and sound effectively, putting us inside his head when he becomes overwhelmed, and there is a lot to overwhelm him. His unexpected feelings for Andrew, one of his targets for arrest, overwhelm him, the way many people are overwhelmed the first time they feel this type of attraction His mother is also struggling with grief, as well as a brother-in-law who takes advantage of her good nature. He’s got a girlfriend who he feels guilty about deceiving, and the fact that he suddenly becomes unable to perform his job.
“Emmi tells the story in a low-key, honest way, and lead actor Tom Blyth is so effective at connecting with the viewer, arousing sympathy and empathy through his understated performance. Russell Tovey is great as well as Andrew, the object of his affection who is unable to reciprocate due to his own life circumstances. Nice to see Maria Dizzia from last year’s CHRISTMAS EVE AT MILLER’S POINT as Lucas’ Mom. Things build to a powerful conclusion where all the anxiety and frustration simmering in Lucas erupts in a profound and satisfying way. A truly powerful and empathetic film. 5 cats
“Screened at the 27th annual Provincetown International Film Festival, Provincetown Town Hall”
Diane says: “I had to push myself to continue with PLAINCLOTHES–some of the effects, and the complicated mix of timelines, turned me off. But ultimately I really liked it. Aside from the emotive power, it reminded me of 1984 in its double-crossing love, or a spy movie where you have to keep track of strategies and pitfalls. As Michael said, great acting from the two sympathetic leads. 4 cats.”