Not for Publication (1984)

In the bustling heart of New York City, Lois Thornedyke, a tabloid reporter and daughter of a Pulitzer prize-winning journalist, is caught in the crossfire between scandalous stories and the pursuit of genuine journalism. Her dreams of transforming her lurid tabloid into a reputable newspaper are fuelled by her work as a political aide to the city's virtuous Mayor Franklyn. The Mayor, revered for his crusade against crime, sleaze and unscrupulous journalism, captures Lois's heart, leading them into a romantic entanglement. Thrust into this whirlwind is Barry Denver, a quirky photographer with a fondness for birdwatching, assigned as Lois's partner by her ravenous editor. Hungry for sensational stories of sex, greed, murder and incest, the editor remains oblivious to the greater narrative unfolding before their eyes. Lois and Barry's first mission together launches them into the extravagant world of a high-class sex club hosting an animal-themed costume party. In the midst of the decadence, they stumble upon a startling heist by masked robbers, not after wealth, but damning evidence. As they delve deeper, Lois and Barry uncover a sinister conspiracy threading through the city's government. The hallowed Mayor Franklyn emerges under a dubious light, placing them in grave peril. Their naivete is put to the test against the looming threat of corruption and the allure of scandalous journalism. Lois and Barry face the ultimate dilemma: surrender to the sensationalism demanded by their tabloid, or risk everything to expose the truth, no matter how deep the hole goes. In this compelling narrative, viewers are left wondering - will they choose safety or truth? In the city that never sleeps, what secrets hide in the shadows? And most importantly, who can be trusted when power is up for grabs?

Not for Publication is a comedy movie featuring Nancy Allen.

Not for Publication is currently streaming for free (ad-supported) on Kanopy.