Russell Tovey speaks on the tragedy and repressiveness of cruising in “Plainclothes” 

In writer/director Carmen Essi’s promising feature film debut “Plainclothes,” Lucas (Tom Blyth) is an undercover cop who entraps gay men in public restrooms in upstate New York in 1997. When he meets Andrew (Russell Tovey) in a bathroom stall, Lucas finds himself attracted to the suspect and lets him go. As the two men discretely arrange to meet up again in the future, they begin a secret affair.

“Plainclothes” focuses on the uneasiness of Lucas’ situation, playing up his anxiety and paranoia. Essi uses a time-jumping narrative and erratic editing to illustrate Lucas’ fractured, conflicted mindset. But there are touching scenes between the closeted Lucas and Andrew, who helps this younger gay man feel safe.

Tovey, who gives a terrific and flinty supporting turn as Andrew, spoke with Phil