A24, known for its distinctive approach to storytelling, is gearing up to release Queer, directed by acclaimed filmmaker Luca Guadagnino, on November 27, 2024.
This film adaptation of William S. Burroughs’s seminal novel promises to offer a profound exploration of self-discovery, attraction, and the search for belonging in a world where societal norms often leave people feeling isolated.
Queer is set against the vibrant backdrop of post-World War II Mexico City, a setting that lends a unique cultural and historical depth to the narrative. Starring Daniel Craig as William Lee and Drew Starkey as Eugene Allerton, the film is already garnering attention for its emotionally charged performances and artistic direction.
A Complex Adaptation of Burroughs’s Work
Published posthumously in 1985, Queer is among Burroughs’s most personal works. The novel delves into the raw and sometimes painful emotions of its protagonist, William Lee, as he grapples with unrequited love, identity, and a sense of displacement. Burroughs wrote the book in the early 1950s, during a turbulent period in his life marked by personal tragedy and addiction. The novel was, in many ways, Burroughs’s attempt to process his own feelings and experiences, creating a narrative that is simultaneously autobiographical and fictionalized.
Guadagnino’s adaptation aims to stay true to the essence of Burroughs’s narrative while offering a modern cinematic experience. Known for his films Call Me by Your Name and Suspiria, Guadagnino has a reputation for capturing the subtleties of human relationships and the intense, often conflicting, emotions that define them. With Queer, he continues his exploration of complex characters and emotional depth, promising a visually and emotionally resonant portrayal that will speak to contemporary audiences while honoring Burroughs’s original vision.
Daniel Craig as William Lee: A Journey of Vulnerability
The role of William Lee is pivotal, and casting Daniel Craig has already generated excitement among fans and critics alike. Known for his portrayal of the stoic, unyielding James Bond, Craig steps into an entirely different character with William Lee—a man who is vulnerable, lost, and desperate for connection. Craig’s transformation for this role is anticipated to be striking, offering audiences a new perspective on his versatility as an actor.
Lee’s character is complicated and deeply layered. His attraction to Eugene Allerton is not just romantic; it is a manifestation of his yearning for acceptance and understanding. His feelings for Allerton are intense but unrequited, leading him down a path of self-doubt, obsession, and introspection. Craig’s portrayal captures the internal struggle of a man who is both desperate for love and haunted by his own insecurities and past traumas. Guadagnino’s direction allows Craig the space to explore these nuances, bringing Lee’s character to life in a way that is raw and relatable.
Drew Starkey as Eugene Allerton: The Object of Desire
Opposite Craig, Drew Starkey stars as Eugene Allerton, the object of William Lee’s affection. Starkey, known for roles in Outer Banks and Hellraiser, brings a natural charisma to Allerton, whose charm and indifference make him both alluring and unattainable to Lee. Allerton’s character is essential to the story not just as a love interest, but as a catalyst for Lee’s emotional journey. Allerton represents a kind of idealized love for Lee—someone who appears to have the stability and ease that Lee longs for.
However, Allerton’s feelings for Lee remain ambiguous. This ambiguity allows for a complex relationship dynamic that challenges Lee and leaves him in a constant state of longing. Guadagnino’s portrayal of this relationship focuses on the subtleties of unrequited love and the way it can shape one’s identity, providing a thoughtful exploration of the intensity and vulnerability that comes with desire.
Exploring Post-War Identity and Isolation
Queer is set in the aftermath of World War II, a time of immense social and cultural change. Mexico City, with its vibrant but complex social fabric, offers an ideal setting for a story about outsiders. For William Lee, Mexico is a place where he hopes to find freedom and escape from the constraints of his previous life. Yet, even in this new environment, he struggles with his own insecurities and the social expectations that continue to follow him.
The post-war setting also reflects a time when traditional norms were being questioned, and marginalized individuals began seeking spaces where they could explore their identities. For Lee, this exploration is fraught with challenges. His interactions with Allerton and other expatriates in Mexico City expose the tension between desire and societal acceptance, illustrating the isolation that often accompanies those who live on the fringes. Guadagnino’s direction highlights these themes through atmospheric cinematography and a narrative that emphasizes Lee’s inner turmoil and desire for belonging.
A24’s Signature Cinematic Style
A24’s involvement in Queer is fitting, as the studio is known for films that challenge conventions and delve into the nuances of human experience. Queer aligns with A24’s mission of producing films that push boundaries and focus on character-driven storytelling. The studio’s aesthetic, which often incorporates hauntingly beautiful visuals and an atmospheric tone, complements Guadagnino’s artistic style. Together, A24 and Guadagnino bring a depth and sensitivity to Queer that allows it to resonate on multiple levels.
The film’s Venice Film Festival premiere has already hinted at the critical acclaim likely to follow its wider release. Early reviews have praised Guadagnino’s handling of the material, as well as Craig’s transformative performance. By combining A24’s cinematic style with Guadagnino’s direction, Queer promises to be a film that is not only visually captivating but also emotionally profound, offering viewers a glimpse into the complexities of love, identity, and self-acceptance.
A Modern Relevance
While set in the past, Queer touches on themes that are universal and timeless, particularly for today’s audiences. The story’s exploration of identity, unrequited love, and the quest for acceptance speaks to the experiences of many who feel they do not fit into societal norms. In an era where conversations around gender, sexuality, and individuality have become more prominent, Queer serves as both a reflection of the struggles of the past and a commentary on the present.
The film underscores the emotional and psychological toll of living a life that doesn’t align with societal expectations. For Lee, his journey is both painful and cathartic, offering insights into the courage it takes to confront one’s true self. Guadagnino’s adaptation brings a fresh perspective to Burroughs’s story, framing it in a way that resonates with contemporary audiences who can relate to the ongoing struggle for acceptance and authenticity.
Anticipated Impact and Cultural Significance
With Queer, A24 and Guadagnino have created a film that captures the essence of Burroughs’s narrative while making it accessible and relevant for today’s viewers. The film’s portrayal of complex relationships, identity, and emotional vulnerability will likely leave a lasting impact on audiences. As a work of art, Queer is poised to be both a tribute to Burroughs’s legacy and a powerful statement on the universal quest for love and understanding.