Queer (Guadagnino, 2024)

Adapted from William S. Burroughs' 1985 novel, a landmark in his career and a cornerstone of transgressive gay literature, Queer is the latest film from Italian director Luca Guadagnino. Set in 1950s Mexico City, in the post-World War II era, the film follows William S. Burroughs' alter ego, William Lee (Daniel Craig), an outcast American expat who forms an intense relationship with an enigmatic, preppy ex-military man (Drew Starkey). This obsession sets them on a journey into the Ecuadorian jungle, where they pursue Dr. Cotter (Lesley Manville), the woman who holds the key to the ultimate high.

The film had its world premiere on September 3, 2024, at the 81st Venice International Film Festival, where it competed for the prestigious Golden Lion and was recently named one of the Top Ten Films of 2024 by the National Board of Review.

If you're unfamiliar with William S. Burroughs, his style, and his novels, you might initially find yourself thinking, "What the f*ck did I just watch?" But don’t let that confusion throw you off. This film demands patience and reflection, but it’s absolutely worth it! For those willing to give it a second chance, its layers of meaning and emotional depth gradually reveal themselves, especially upon rewatches. It’s the kind of film that lingers with you, offering plenty to think about and appreciate.

The third act takes on a stranger tone, delving into body horror which may not resonate with everyone. However, it carries a profound meaning that is deeply moving. This tonal shift encourgaes viewers to embrace the film's abstract approach, offering a haunting reflection that stays with you long after the credits roll.

Overall, Queer is a strange, sensual, and deeply melancholic exploration of desire, identity, and vulnerability. The film delves into the raw, unfiltered life of a queer man consumed by infatuation, longing, and addiction, capturing the complexities of human connection and the profound loneliness that often accompanies it - particularly within the queer community. It offers a close look at a character struggling with his desires, trapped in a cycle of self-doubt and emotional pain, while desperately searching for comfort in brief and intense connections. The film masterfully exposes the tension between the search for love and the fear of rejection, offering a poignant reflection on the emotional toll of desire and the bittersweet beauty of vulnerability.

Daniel Craig delivers a powerhouse performance, embodying this character with remarkable depth, intensity, and emotional nuance. As a queer man vacillating between desperation and self-awareness, his portrayal is utterly captivating, solidifying this performance as one of the most compelling of his career.  Craig gives it his all, delivering a portrayal unlike anything you’ve seen from him before. His raw physicality and heartbreaking vulnerability make the character’s journey feel painfully authentic, resonating deeply with the audience. 

With stunning cinematography and exquisite production design, Queer is a cinematic experience that demands to be seen on the big screen. Every frame is meticulously crafted, with rich, atmospheric visuals that immerse the audience in the film’s surrealist approach. The attention to detail in the set and costume design adds layers of meaning, creating a world that feels both dreamlike and hauntingly real. The use of lighting, shadows, and color enhances the film's mood, drawing viewers deeper into the complex psychological landscape of the characters. 

Queer isn't just a simple film; it's an experience that resonates on a very deep level.

The film hits theaters nationwide on December 13, and it’s definitely worth a watch (or even a rewatch)!

Photo credits : MUBI and A24