Documentary Explores Legacy of Friedkin's Controversial Thriller

WHO:

Deadline - Dan Savage, author, is featured in the documentary discussing the themes of the film.

Variety - William Friedkin is identified as the director of the 1980 film "Cruising."

WHAT:

Deadline - The documentary titled "Mineshaft: The Cruising Murders" explores the brutal murder that serves as a starting point for its narrative.

Variety - The documentary examines the legacy of Friedkin's "Cruising," which has been both criticized and reclaimed by the queer community.

WHERE:

Deadline - The documentary paints a portrait of pre-AIDS New York, using the filming of "Cruising" as its backdrop.

WHY:

Variety - "Cruising" has been long denounced by the queer community it aimed to represent, yet it is also seen as a rare mainstream portrayal of a vanished social scene.

HOW:

Deadline - The documentary uses the context of a murder to delve into the themes of the film and its impact on society.

(UPDATED June 8, 2026 23:20 UTC)

A new documentary titled "Mineshaft: The Cruising Murders" features author Dan Savage and explores the brutal murder that serves as a starting point for its narrative. Directed by William Friedkin, the film examines the legacy of his 1980 work "Cruising," which has been both criticized and reclaimed by the queer community, all while painting a portrait of pre-AIDS New York. By using the context of this murder, the documentary delves into the themes of the film and its lasting impact on society.