About Strip Search

Strip Search, released in 2004, is a ground-breaking psychological drama addressing the delicate issue of individual liberties post-September 11. It ingeniously intertwines two parallel stories to examine the impact of this historic event on freedom and individual privacy.

In one story set in New York City, an American woman is interrogated by an authoritarian American officer due to an innocuous email she had sent, while thousands of miles away in Beijing, a Chinese man goes through similar circumstances. The two stories evolve in tandem, creating an intense and thought-provoking narrative about civil liberties in the post-9/11 world.

Making / Production

The movie was directed and produced by Sidney Lumet, a veteran in the industry recognized for his work in cinema verité-type dramas. The script, written by Tom Fontana, creates an intricate narrative that portrays intense character development under duress. The movie's gripping depiction of the erosion of civil liberties and human rights was beautifully shot with a minimalist set design, emphasizing the claustrophobic atmosphere of the interrogation rooms. This intense, intimate ambiance is instrumental in driving home the message the movie aims to convey.

Actors

• Maggie Gyllenhaal: Plays the role of an American graduate student interrogated by U.S. officials. She brings a staggering depth of emotion to the role, effectively conveying the fear and uncertainty of her character.
• Ken Leung: Portrays a Chinese student in Beijing, who undergoes a similar strip search. His performance lends a quiet yet fierce intensity to the role, underscoring the magnitude of his predicament.
• Glenn Close: As the unyielding U.S. officer, Close delivers a chilling performance, reminding audiences of the chilling realities of unchecked authoritarianism.

Trivia / Interesting Facts about Strip Search

• The movie was initially intended for release as an HBO film but was ultimately released in theaters due to its high-quality content.
• Though the movie garnered controversy for its subject matter, it was praised for its thought-provoking narrative and powerful performances.

Awards

This film did not receive any official awards, but its impressive performances and hard-hitting narrative have earned it a place in the echelons of impactful cinematic experiences.

Quotes

• "We have jurisdiction anywhere we decide we have jurisdiction." - Karen Moore, played by Glenn Close.
• "I am not a terrorist!" - Liu Tsung-Yuan, played by Ken Leung.

Music, Soundtrack

The film's tense atmosphere is further amplified by its chilling soundtrack. Despite the soundtrack not being released as a separate album, the movie's score truly underscores the dramatic tension and disturbing themes of the narrative.