Cruising (1980) — A Bold Retrospective

Step into the gritty, electric underbelly of 1980s New York City as Cinema Nova presents a special screening of William Friedkin’s provocative thriller Cruising. This R18+ film follows an undercover police officer navigating the city’s gay leather and S&M subculture to hunt a serial killer — a story that still sparks conversation decades later.

Pair this intense cinematic experience with the compelling documentary Mineshaft, offering a candid look into the legendary NYC leather club that inspired scenes from the film. It’s not just a movie night — it’s a cultural deep dive.

Why you’ll love it:

• Raw, unapologetic storytelling from a controversial classic
• Companion documentary adds depth and context to the film’s subculture
• Perfect for fans of queer cinema, thrillers, and film history
• Screened in stunning 35mm for the full vintage experience

This screening is part of the Melbourne Queer Film Festival’s curated retrospective program — where cinema meets culture, and stories challenge, celebrate, and provoke.