The End of Cruising

Anyone who has had cruising experiences in public lavatories or parks will find recognition in the anecdotal stories being told here. The film is divided in little 5 to 10 minute vignettes, in which one particular cruising spot is the focus, and one person's experience with it, is narrated. Visually, we are taken to that geographical location that is being spoken about, and see the cruising spaces as they were back then, or what has become of them now (often defunct). We are treated to a kaleidoscope of moving images, a dreamscape to other people's flashbacks of the characteristics of these locations, so to speak. Herein, Verow has also managed to convey in each history, a different sentiment. The soundtrack aids greatly to this as well.

There are no talking heads in this movie, thankfully. The (often animated) voices speak for themselves, and visually it is mostly the ambiance of the location that has precedence over an exact re- enactment of the sexual pursuits being recounted. I like it that way. It might have a hint of the abstract about it, but it is completely accessible to anyone who has an interest in cruising (as to them, the images will make absolute sense).

Despite the film being called "The End of Cruising," there are some locations and histories in the film that indicate that all hope is not lost yet. I am glad for this, as in my experience, I believe that there are still a fair amount of places going strong (thank God!).