Plainclothes
Inspired by true events, Carmen Emmi’s feature-length directorial debut takes place in 1990s New York, where Lucas spends his days working as an undercover police officer. A part of a unit, he patrols the local shopping mall, meeting the gaze of unknowing gay men, before arresting them in the toilets. But behind this façade, he hides a secret of his own. Confronting not only these men but his own sexuality and family, Lucas experiences a crisis of identity that worsens more and more as he continues to work in a homophobic environment.
A romantic thriller with immense artistic flair, at face value, the premise of this movie is very enticing, but what unravels is even more so. You find yourself gripped by the performances of Tom Blythe (Lucas) and Russell Tovey (Andrew), another gay man, but one who is married with children. Both represent two different peas but from the same pod, trapped by their circumstances and the judging gaze of society. They each deserve their flowers for their performances, with Blythe sending himself to hell and back on a rollercoaster of emotion to execute his portrayal of the vulnerable Lucas. Tovey, on the other hand, plays a wiser head, knowledgeable of the risks that come with his infidelity, but also at peace with it.
You feel pity for Lucas, but also every ounce of his shame every time he busts another gay man in what can only be described as sting operations. Such shady tactics were used in the United States well into the mid-90s. Plainclothes is a true reminder of the prejudice so many gay men in areas of America faced. For so long, there was a sense of dishonour for gay men who were forced to feel uncomfortable even in the safety of their own homes, and this all comes to a climax in a clattering fashion at a family gathering on New Year’s Eve.
It is the editing and sound mixing are the real jewels in the crown of this movie. The non-linear storytelling is aided by the camera switching constantly between film and VHS recordings, as we are allowed to see the world through Lucas’s eyes. There are also several creative transition sequences, visually and audibly, that help the story flow effortlessly between different time periods. However, while they are very easy on the eye, Emmi may have relied a little too much on the harsh side effects that come frequently with home video and intense editing, as it often shatters the gentle nature of the romantic scenes.
This is but a minor hiccup in what is a beautiful and sensitive film that acts as a reminder of the pain and suffering felt by the gay community not so long ago. It was awarded the Special Jury Award for Ensemble Cast at the Sundance Film Festival, and it will come as little to no surprise when it receives a powerfully positive reception upon release.
Guy Lambert
Plainclothes is released nationwide on 10th October 2025.
Watch the trailer for Plainclothes here:
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