The Crying Game (1992)

This highly original film put screenwriter-director Neil Jordan on the international map. The story begins at a carnival in Ireland with British soldier Jody (Forest Whitaker) kidnapped by IRA terrorists Jude (Miranda Richardson) and Fergus (Stephen Rea). Fergus is assigned to guard Jody, and they become friends. After the kidnapping goes horribly wrong, Fergus escapes to London to track down Jody's girlfriend, Dil (Jaye Davidson), to fulfill a promise to Jody and ends up falling in love with her. The only problem--well, it's not the only problem--is Jude has also come to London with news that the IRA is after Fergus and has a dangerous new mission in mind.

A sensation during its original release for its controversial plot development, THE CRYING GAME went on to win several awards and remains a tender and thrilling viewing experience. Jordan's script bristles with wit and intelligence, and the plentiful symbolic imagery shows the hand of a true artist. Ian Wilson's photography beautifully captures the various locales of London and rural Ireland. Boy George sings the title song, and the rest of the memorable score is by Anne Dudley.