‘Cruising’ With Bill Simmons, Chris Ryan, and Wesley Morris
Nov 8, 2022
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Exploring the controversial and provocative themes of 'Cruising' and 'The Warriors' in 70s New York, discussing the intense atmosphere and subtle eroticism portrayed in the movie. Delving into the challenges of filming in gritty New York, unconventional career choices of actors, exploring suspense and character dynamics in cinema. Analyzing themes of law enforcement and religion in films, comical undercover cop situations, and impact of classic movies like 'French Connection'.
Exploring the gritty urban world of the late '70s through 'Cruising' and 'The Warriors'.
The intricate hanky code adds depth to the subculture and Pacino's character development.
Pacino's vulnerability and need for support highlight the internal turmoil he faces.
The chilling interrogation scene showcases power dynamics within the investigation.
The impactful yearbook discovery links to engaging mystery-solving aspects of the narrative.
The climactic cop-killer confrontation unfolds with intense cat-and-mouse suspense.
Deep dives
Servino lays out the job for Pacino
Pacino is briefed about the victims resembling him physically, igniting the intrigue into the mysterious case.
First visit to the gay bar scene
Pacino delves into the S&M world firsthand, experiencing the distinct atmosphere and dynamics of the underground scene.
Pacino dancing scene
Pacino's entrancing dance sequence captures the energy and ambiguity of his character's immersion into a new world.
Powers Booth explains the hanky code
The interaction with Booth detailing the color-coded hanky code adds depth to the subculture's intricacies and Pacino's learning curve.
Dressmaker kill sequence
The tense sequence involving the dressmaker murder showcases the Hitchcockian suspense interwoven into the gripping narrative.
Pacino alerting Servino of his struggles
Pacino reveals vulnerability and asks for support in a pivotal moment, emphasizing the internal turmoil he faces.
Yearbook revelation
The impactful discovery in the yearbook connecting to the case showcases the engaging mystery-solving aspect of the narrative.
Final showdown at the park
The climactic confrontation between the cop and the killer unfolds with suspense and intensity, culminating in a gripping cat-and-mouse chase.
Karen Allen's involvement in the finale
The involvement of Karen Allen's character adds a poignant layer to the gripping conclusion, highlighting the thematic complexity of the film.
Interrogation scene
The chilling interrogation scene adds a harrowing dimension to the narrative, illustrating the unsettling power dynamics at play within the investigation.
Potential Sequel or Prequel
Exploring the undercover cop theme further with a modern twist, potentially focusing on a gay cop navigating the complexities of the LGBTQ+ community.
Best Life Lesson
Considering the ambitious and risky pathways to career advancement in law enforcement depicted in the movie.
Best Double Feature Choice
Pairing 'The Warriors' with 'Cruising' for a deep dive into the gritty urban worlds of the late '70s.
Mystery Surrounding Ted's Murder
Leaving the audience questioning whether Servino suspects Pacino or if someone else might be the culprit.
Friedkin's Impact
Acknowledging William Friedkin as the driving force behind the movie's immersive and realistic portrayal of the underground scene.
Effects of Desensitization
Considering the impact of desensitization to explicit content on audience expectations and desires for heightened drama.
The Ringer’s Bill Simmons and Chris Ryan and the New York Times’ Wesley Morris put on their aviators and leather jackets to rewatch William Friedkin’s ‘Cruising,’ starring Al Pacino, Karen Allen, and Paul Sorvino.
