Daniel Craig & Drew Starkey Ignite Buzz in A24’s ‘Queer’: A Deep Dive into Luca Guadagnino’s Latest
The cinematic world is abuzz with anticipation following the premiere of A24’s latest offering, Queer, at the prestigious 2024 Venice International Film Festival. This highly-anticipated film brings together a compelling cast led by the iconic Daniel Craig, celebrated for his definitive portrayal of James Bond, and the rapidly rising star Drew Starkey, known for his work on Outer Banks. Directed by the acclaimed Luca Guadagnino, Queer promises a profound and introspective journey into the heart of 1940s Mexico City, exploring themes of identity, desire, and the expatriate experience.
From the moment its stars graced the red carpet in Venice, Queer has captured significant attention, marking a pivotal moment for both its lead actors and the independent film landscape. A24’s acquisition of the film further solidifies its status as a must-see for connoisseurs of arthouse cinema and compelling storytelling. As details emerge from the festival, Hollywood Life is here to compile everything you need to know about this captivating new feature starring Daniel Craig and Drew Starkey.
What Is A24’s ‘Queer’ About? Unraveling the William S. Burroughs Adaptation
Queer delves into the life of William Lee, a character who meticulously recounts his existence amidst the vibrant yet often volatile backdrop of 1940s Mexico City. The official synopsis, as provided by IMDb, paints a vivid picture: Lee navigates a world populated by American expatriate college students and bar owners, all striving to survive through part-time jobs and the benefits afforded by the GI Bill. This setting provides fertile ground for a narrative rich with cultural observation and personal introspection.
At the core of Lee’s narrative is his intense and often obsessive pursuit of a younger man named Allerton. This character, Allerton, is notably based on Adelbert Lewis Marker, adding a layer of biographical depth to the film’s emotional landscape. The film promises a raw and unflinching exploration of desire, loneliness, and the complexities of human connection, filtered through Lee’s unique perspective.
The film is an adaptation of William S. Burroughs’ semi-autobiographical novel of the same name. Written between 1951 and 1953 but not published until 1985, Burroughs’ novel is a seminal work in queer literature, known for its unflinching portrayal of drug addiction, sexual obsession, and alienation. Guadagnino’s adaptation is expected to capture the essence of Burroughs’ provocative style while translating it into a visually stunning and emotionally resonant cinematic experience. The period setting of 1940s Mexico City is crucial, as it was a haven for artists, writers, and those seeking an alternative lifestyle away from the conservative norms of post-war America, providing a potent backdrop for Lee’s journey of self-discovery and yearning.
Luca Guadagnino: The Visionary Director Behind ‘Queer’
The directorial helm of Queer is firmly in the hands of Luca Guadagnino, a filmmaker renowned for his distinctive aesthetic and profound exploration of human emotions, particularly desire and identity. Guadagnino’s impressive filmography includes critically acclaimed works such as Call Me By Your Name, a poignant romance that garnered numerous accolades, and the recently released Challengers, a stylish and intense tennis drama. His unique ability to craft intimate narratives with a keen eye for visual beauty and psychological depth makes him an ideal choice for adapting Burroughs’ challenging novel.
Guadagnino has consistently demonstrated a masterful touch in depicting complex relationships and the nuances of human longing. His films often immerse audiences in lush, evocative settings that become characters in themselves, a characteristic that is expected to be prominently featured in Queer‘s portrayal of Mexico City. His approach to storytelling is often characterized by a sensitive yet daring exploration of sexuality and vulnerability, themes that are central to William Lee’s story. With Queer, Guadagnino continues his trajectory of crafting thought-provoking cinema that resonates deeply with audiences, cementing his reputation as one of contemporary cinema’s most compelling voices.
Daniel Craig’s Transformative Role and Drew Starkey’s Breakthrough Performance
In Queer, Daniel Craig takes on the challenging lead role of William Lee, showcasing a significant departure from his globally recognized persona as James Bond. This performance underscores Craig’s versatility and his dedication to exploring diverse and complex characters in his post-007 career. Drew Starkey, recognized for his role in the hit series Outer Banks, portrays Eugene Allerton, the object of Lee’s intense fascination. Their dynamic on screen is a central pillar of the film’s emotional weight.
During their appearance at the Venice Film Festival, both co-stars candidly discussed the intimate scenes required for the film, emphasizing the professional and artistic approach taken during filming. Daniel Craig highlighted the inherent paradox of intimacy on a movie set, as reported by Deadline: “You know as well as I do, there’s nothing intimate about filming a sex scene on a movie set. There’s a room full of people watching you. We just wanted to make it as touching and as real and as natural as we possibly could.” This statement reflects the actors’ commitment to authenticity and their collaborative effort to create moments that felt genuinely human despite the technical demands of production.
The No Time to Die star also extended high praise to Drew Starkey, commending his professionalism and talent. He described Starkey as “a wonderful, fantastic, beautiful actor to work with,” noting that their on-set dynamic was filled with camaraderie. Craig added that they “kind of had a laugh” and “tried to make [filming the scenes] fun,” illustrating a positive and supportive working environment essential for such sensitive material. This mutual respect clearly translated into a compelling on-screen partnership.
Drew Starkey also shared insights into their preparation process, revealing that they “jumped into movement rehearsals pretty early on.” This unique approach went beyond the intimate scenes, permeating the entire film. Starkey explained, “And I think not just in the intimate scenes, but throughout the course of the movie, that really freed us up and freed what was happening in the air, and it freed our bodies up, and we felt open to try new things.” This emphasis on physical and emotional liberation allowed the actors to fully inhabit their roles and explore every facet of their characters’ interactions. Starkey humbly admitted, “I’m not a dancer. Daniel’s definitely not a dancer. But I think we learned. I think we got better together,” underscoring the collaborative and growth-oriented spirit that defined their work on Queer. This detailed preparation speaks volumes about the dedication of the cast and crew to bring Burroughs’ complex narrative to life with nuance and sensitivity.
‘Queer’ Release Date and A24’s Impact
The excitement surrounding Queer is palpable, especially with A24 recently acquiring the rights to the film. This is a significant development, as A24 is celebrated for its discerning selection of groundbreaking and artistically bold projects, often championing independent cinema that challenges conventions and provokes thought. Their involvement not only elevates the film’s profile but also promises a strategic and thoughtful distribution strategy. While a nationwide release date has not yet been officially revealed, A24’s backing suggests that Queer will receive the attention and platform it deserves, reaching audiences eager for sophisticated and impactful storytelling.
The acquisition by A24 means that cinephiles can anticipate a release that aligns with the quality and cultural significance typically associated with the studio’s catalog. Past A24 films have often become cultural touchstones, known for their unique narratives, strong performances, and memorable directorial visions. As such, the anticipation for Queer‘s eventual theatrical and streaming release grows, with many eager to witness Daniel Craig and Drew Starkey’s performances under Luca Guadagnino’s masterful direction. Fans are encouraged to stay tuned for official announcements regarding the film’s release schedule, as it is poised to be one of the most talked-about movies of the upcoming season.