"Plainclothes": Tom Blyth and Russell Tovey Lead Powerful Queer Drama on Police Entrapment

"Plainclothes," directed by Carmen Emmi and starring Tom Blyth and Russell Tovey, has emerged as one of 2025's most talked-about queer films following its Sundance premiere. The film is scheduled for a U.S. theatrical release on September 19th, 2025, via Magnolia Pictures & Magnet Releasing, with critics and audiences already highlighting its emotional depth and historical importance .

Set in 1997 Syracuse, the story follows Lucas (Tom Blyth), a promising undercover police officer grappling with personal loss and a recent breakup. Lucas’s assignment: lure and arrest gay men in public restrooms, a practice historically used to criminalize queer communities. However, when Lucas meets Andrew (Russell Tovey), one of his targets, the professional becomes personal as the two form a secret and electrifying connection. As Lucas’s internal conflict intensifies, the film builds toward a dramatic New Year’s Eve reckoning, exploring the cost of living an authentic life under oppressive systems .

The film draws on true events, echoing the real-life tactics that targeted LGBTQ+ individuals in the late 20th century. Police sting operations, especially in cities like New York, frequently sought to entrap gay men, resulting in arrests, public shaming, and lasting trauma . "Plainclothes" situates its narrative in this era, portraying the emotional and ethical turmoil faced by those on both sides—victims and perpetrators alike.

Director Carmen Emmi, making her feature-length debut, has described the project as an attempt to humanize the individuals caught in these systems and to challenge viewers to confront uncomfortable truths about policing, sexuality, and the legacy of discrimination .

Tom Blyth’s portrayal of Lucas has drawn widespread praise for its nuance and intensity, with critics pointing to his depiction of anxiety and vulnerability as Oscar-worthy. Russell Tovey’s Andrew is described as both magnetic and deeply sympathetic, embodying the risks and resilience of queer love in an era when it was criminalized . The supporting cast, including Maria Dizzia, Christian Cooke, and Amy Forsyth, round out a production that is both tightly scripted and emotionally raw.

The film’s aesthetic—shot on 16mm with a distinct ‘90s camcorder vibe—enhances its claustrophobic tension, immersing audiences in Lucas’s psychological journey. The score by Emily Wells further amplifies the film’s haunting atmosphere .

"Plainclothes" stands out not only for its historical subject matter but also for its affirming and inclusive representation of queer identities. The film avoids caricature or victimization, instead portraying queer characters with agency, complexity, and emotional truth. This approach has resonated powerfully with festival audiences, sparking dialogue about the ongoing need for authentic queer stories in mainstream media .

Queer advocacy organizations have noted the film’s relevance amid contemporary debates about policing, privacy, and civil rights. While progress has been made, many queer and transgender people still face disproportionate scrutiny and violence from law enforcement, making "Plainclothes" a timely reminder of both historical injustice and the importance of vigilance .

At Sundance, "Plainclothes" received multiple accolades, including the Jury Award for Best LGBTQ+ Feature. The film’s emotional climax and unflinching honesty prompted standing ovations and impassioned commentary from both queer and allied viewers. Online platforms such as NewFest and Magnolia Selects have amplified the film’s message, encouraging wider engagement and advocacy .

With over 1,000 IMDb ratings and a score of 7.2/10, the film’s popularity signals a growing appetite for nuanced queer storytelling. Critics have lauded its refusal to shy away from difficult conversations, and many have called for mainstream awards recognition—not only for the performances but for its contribution to LGBTQ+ cinema .