The much-anticipated trailer for ‘Queer,’ starring Daniel Craig and Drew Starkey, offers a glimpse into a lush adaptation of William S. Burroughs’ semi-autobiographical novel. Set in 1940s Mexico City, the film follows American expat William Lee, portrayed by Daniel Craig, who lives in isolation among American college students and bar owners.
The storyline evolves as Lee becomes infatuated with Eugene Allerton, a discharged American Navy serviceman and drug user, played by Drew Starkey. Initially indifferent, Allerton eventually gets involved with Lee. The film also features Jason Schwartzman, Lesley Manville, and Omar Apollo.
Directed by Luca Guadagnino, known for ‘Call Me By Your Name,’ ‘Queer’ had its World Premiere at the Venice International Film Festival, competing for the Golden Lion and earning rave reviews, especially for Daniel Craig’s performance. It was also screened at the Toronto International Film Festival and the New York Film Festival.
According to the Venice Film Festival’s official synopsis, the story is set in 1950 and follows William Lee, an American expat in his early 50s, living a mostly solitary life in Mexico City. His encounter with Eugene Allerton, a young student new to the city, marks a significant moment, showing him the possibility of forming an intimate connection.
Director Luca Guadagnino reflects on the film, saying, “How can a man who sees and feels be other than sad?” This question from Burroughs’ last diary entry before his death guided the adaptation of his second novel, written almost forty years earlier. The film explores the deep yet tumultuous relationship between Lee and Allerton in their journey through South America, imagined by Burroughs.
‘Queer’ is set to hit theaters on November 27.