The Best Movies You've (Probably) Never Seen: L.I.E (2001)

In our salad days at University (Millie simply loves that phrase), we had the extreme pleasure of taking a number of excellent film classes, including Gay and Lesbian Theatre and Film. Though I have less than spectacular comments about the course itself ("Gay and Lesbian Theatre and Film" meant one week of lesbian studies and 12 weeks of man/boy love, which might explain why class was held in the fieldhouse at the precise time the men's track team held topless practice), the subject matter was fascinating and selections extremely impressive. One favorite in particular? You may have guessed, Michael Cuesta's homoerotic suspense thriller L.I.E (which stands for Long Island Expressway).

L.I.E modestly boasts that stellar combination of being both visually and intellectually stimulating. Cinematographer Romeo Tirone's shots are exquisite, supple, and dangerously seductive. And what makes these mesmerizing moving pictures all the more sensual is the story, written by Cuesta, Stephen Ryder, and Gerald Cuesta. Howie Blizter (played eloquently by the promising Paul Dano, whom I have a humongeous crush on, I mean look at this . . .) has just lost his mother and his irresponsible, womanizing father, who owns a massive construction company, is being indited for crimes related to the business. Like any young kid, Howie craves attention, even discipline, but receives neither and befriends a young criminal named Gary (played by Billy Kay, who looks eerily like a very young, handsome Mickey Rourke). Soon they are caught breaking and entering and indebted to local businessman Big John (the ever-changing, always fantastic Brian Cox), who's relationship with Gary, and the other boys that live at his house, intrigues the lonely Howie.

Brian Cox and Paul Dano, the future Mr. Jenn Jarecki

L.I.E is not for the faint of heart, the subject matter is pretty disturbing and the young actors just that, quite young. Plus any fans of Super Troopers are going have to make major adjustments to appreciate Cox's performance, which effortlessly burns itself into your memory. Captivating, stunning, and even touching, L.I.E. is a drama not to be missed.