(Screengrab from Magnolia Pictures & Magnet Releasing’s Official YouTube Account)

Plainclothes, written and directed by Carmen Emmi, is a romantic thriller set in 1990s Syracuse. The film follows Lucas, played by Tom Blyth, a closeted undercover officer tasked with entrapping gay men in mall restrooms by luring them into compromising situations. What begins as a cold assignment quickly changes course when Lucas encounters Andrew, portrayed by Russell Tovey. Their meeting complicates everything, as Lucas finds himself unexpectedly drawn to Andrew. The undercover operation soon spirals into a dangerous intersection of duty, intimacy, and self-discovery. The story reaches its emotional peak during a tense New Year’s Eve family gathering, when a misplaced letter forces Lucas to confront his desires, memories, and the reality of who he is beneath the uniform.

The film boasts an impressive ensemble cast alongside Blyth and Tovey. Maria Dizzia plays Marie, Christian Cooke appears as Ron, Gabe Fazio takes on the role of Uncle Paul, Amy Forsyth portrays Emily, and John Bedford Lloyd plays Lt. Sollars. Supporting roles round out the picture with nuanced performances that deepen the atmosphere of secrecy, repression, and yearning that drives the narrative. Behind the camera, Carmen Emmi makes her directorial debut, also serving as screenwriter. The project is produced by Colby Cote, Arthur Landon, Eric Podwall, and Vanessa Pantley for Lorton Entertainment and Page 1 Entertainment. Emily Wells provides the original score, Ethan Palmer handles cinematography, and Erik Vogt-Nilsen manages editing, bringing the film’s tension and intimacy to life.

Production began in March 2024 in Syracuse, New York, with locations lending authenticity to the film’s period setting. Plainclothes made its world premiere on January 26, 2025, at the Sundance Film Festival, where it earned the U.S. Dramatic Special Jury Award for Ensemble Cast. Following its successful debut, Magnolia Pictures acquired global distribution rights in April 2025. The film is scheduled for a limited theatrical release in the United States beginning September 19, 2025, with international distribution to follow, including a UK and Ireland release via Curzon Artificial Eye in October. Special screenings, including a New York premiere with filmmaker Q&A sessions at NewFest, are also part of its rollout.

Critics have responded positively, with Plainclothes holding an 81% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes and garnering praise on Metacritic. Reviewers highlight the chemistry between Blyth and Tovey as central to the film’s impact, while Emmi’s debut direction has been called assured and deeply affecting. The film’s blend of undercover police drama and queer romance positions it as a unique entry in both genres, merging suspense with intimacy in ways rarely seen on screen.

With its evocative setting, layered performances, and exploration of desire under pressure, Plainclothes is emerging as one of the most talked-about films of the year. For audiences, it offers both a gripping thriller and a tender story of forbidden connection. As its theatrical release approaches, anticipation continues to build for a film that dares to ask what happens when a mission collides with the heart. Watch Plainclothes’ trailer below:

Happy viewing!

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