EP 5: PRIDE Special! CRUISING ('80) vs PARTNERS ('82)
“Bears, and Butts, and Social Injustice--Oh my!”
In support of our LGBTQIA+ fans and fiends, we're tackling two gay-themed (and problematic) film flops from the 80's! William Friedkin (The Exorcist) and Al Pacino (The Godfather) team for the troubled production CRUISING, and director James Burrows (Will & Grace) and writer Francis Veber (The Birdcage) muddle through the John Hurt (Alien) buddy cop flick PARTNERS! You've been warned!
Host: Nate Wyckoff
Panelists: Mandy Longley & Jeffrey Tucker
More on CRUISING (1980):
Directed by William Friedkin, "Cruising" is a controversial psychological thriller set against the backdrop of New York City's underground gay subculture in the late 1970s. Al Pacino delivers a captivating performance as Steve Burns, an undercover cop who infiltrates the leather bar scene to catch a serial killer targeting gay men.
The movie immerses us in a gritty and dark atmosphere, depicting the seedy underbelly of a vibrant and pulsating city. As Burns delves deeper into the subculture, he grapples with his own identity and sexuality, leading to a captivating character study. The film's explicit violence and sexual themes sparked intense debate upon its release, with critics questioning its portrayal of homosexuality and the potential impact on gay rights.
"Cruising" is not just a murder mystery but also an exploration of human psychology and societal dynamics. The film delves into themes of repression, desire, and the masks people wear to fit into society's expectations. Through Pacino's nuanced performance, we witness the internal struggle of a man facing the internal dilemma of staying true to his preconceived notions of his identity or embracing his newfound sexual desires.
Despite the controversy surrounding it, "Cruising" remains a captivating and polarizing film, reflecting the attitudes and tensions of the era. It challenges viewers to confront their own biases and prejudices, prompting discussions about societal acceptance and the portrayal of marginalized communities in cinema.
More on PARTNERS (1982):
Directed by James Burrows, Partners is an oddball buddy cop comedy released in 1982. The film follows the contrasting personalities of two Los Angeles police detectives, John "Jed" Partner (Ryan O'Neal) and Kerwin "Keyes" Lassiter (John Hurt), as they are unexpectedly partnered together to solve the murder of a prominent television executive.
Jed, an old-fashioned, macho cop with a womanizing streak, is initially uneasy about working with Kerwin, a sensitive and openly gay detective. Their clashing personalities create a slew of potentially comedic moments as they navigate their way through the investigation. Amidst their differences, the two gradually develop mutual respect and friendship while navigating the turbulent waters of '80s police culture (which, if this is accurate, was actually safer than it is now).
As they delve deeper into the case, the detectives uncover a web of deceit and conspiracy that threatens to undermine their investigation. Along the way, Partners attempts to explore the themes of homophobia, masculinity, and the evolution of society's perception of gender and sexual orientation. Questionable wit is paired with solid performances and occasionally clever writing, making Partners an occasionally funny flick also promising social commentary.
This 1980s movie definitely showcases the comedic chemistry between O'Neal and Hurt, as well. Partners stands the test of time with its progressive portrayal of LGBTQ+ characters in mainstream comedy, while unashamedly tackling issues surrounding prejudice. Whether you're a fan of buddy cop films or enjoy thought-provoking humor, Partners delivers an entertaining and heartwarming experience that will leave you laughing long after the credits roll.