What the fuck are you talking about? You are so far off. Friedkin didn't change a thing; he simply filmed everything already going on. The plot was based on all real events, and Friedkin's original choice for the lead was Richard Gere, who would have been great.

Actually CRUISING has received quite a reassessment within the last few years; it has become known as an excellent thriller that explores the gay BDSM scene of the late 70’s in New York without judgment. It was wholly accurate, shot almost documentary style.