Stunning, raw, and deeply emotional, My Policeman directed by Michael Grandage was released in select theaters on October 21st of 2022 and will become available to Amazon Prime Video on November 4th. The film tells the tale of three lives interwoven and how love can impact them all. The film follows a man named Tom Burgess living in the 1950s as a police officer during a time when same-sex relationships were considered illegal. Despite living a life that on the surface seems perfect, with a loving wife named Marion, Tom quickly becomes enraptured by a man named Patrick. The pair soon after meeting begin to develop a relationship of their own.

My Policeman is an adaptation of the 2012 novel of the same name by Bethan Roberts, and certainly does the novel justice. Grandbage also ensured that an LGBTQ+ cast was involved in the process with David Dawson and Rupert Everett, two openly gay actors both starring as Patrick and Emma Corrin, the latter of whom is queer and non-binary starring as Marion. The film also features Harry Styles as Tom, who starred in Don’t Worry Darling mere months prior to this release as well as other incredible actors including Linus Roache and Gina McKee.

The story struck audiences immediately during their attendance at TIFF (Toronto International Film Festival) on September 11th where the main cast members won the Tribute Actor Award, the first time it was given to an ensemble of people instead of an individual cast member.

From the start of the film one thing becomes apparent very quickly and that is gorgeous cinematography which truly helps to drive the emotion. From close intimate shots that feel like pieces of art, to careful use of rack focus and zoom, the shot choices themselves become a storyteller. Many of the more intimate moments were reportedly choreographed which seems to have allowed for true emotional precision. According to Grandage, the goal was to capture “sensuality of touch” and his vision came to life.

From the start the story eases the viewer into this perfect love with Marion that charms the viewer. Swim lessons and studying to fill their time until they begin to date. The pair is shown being young and in love in the heart of Brighton as they partake in an appreciation of art and music which ties them to Patrick as the head of a Gallery they attend. Only when the viewer sees Patrick’s perspective do the pieces brilliantly fall together, with the smallest of details being laced together from the beginning.

Acting from such a talented cast was clear with subtlety of glances from Tom, being able to give the viewer his point of view despite Patrick and Marion being the novel’s original point of view. From the first time Tom touches Patrick on his collar there is a tension that is tangible. The fear and uncertainty that comes with being closeted especially in the 50s is captured even in movements and features a passion that silver lines the pain.

The pain doesn’t ease however, and is unflinching in capturing the reality of homophobia. Especially for Patrick, who has embraced his identity despite the danger that may arise. As well as the danger and societal pressures Tom faces due to his position with the police force and his struggle with order as a result. But in capturing this pain it proves that as long as love is at the core of the struggle it is worth the resilience to continue and shouldn’t be given up. To not be able to love someone with all that you are is the true tragedy that can very well arise.

The film is a beautiful example of LGBTQ+ representation and exhibits tenderness at every turn. The film is sure to be a tearjerker, with cries being noticeable behind me as the credits rolled. Be sure to see My Policeman in theaters now or from home on November 4th, there should be no regrets.

Works Cited

Bamigboye, Baz. “Harry Styles Explored ‘the Sensuality of Touch’ with Co-Stars for Role in ‘My Policeman’, Says Film’s Director Michael Grandage – Toronto Q&A.” Deadline, Deadline, 11 Sept. 2022, https://deadline.com/2022/09/harry-styles-intimacy-scenes-my-policeman-michael-grandage-interview-1235113526/.