Daniel Craig explores new terrain in “Queer”
Omar Apollo steps into the spotlight
Renowned singer Omar Apollo makes a daring leap into the world of acting with his debut in “Queer”, portraying a hustler who shares intimate scenes with Daniel Craig. This bold move places Apollo in a challenging and provocative role, immediately drawing attention from both critics and audiences.
Craig, a seasoned actor best known for his tenure as James Bond, recounts his experience working with Apollo. “Omar is a beautiful human being,” Craig shared at a recent screening hosted by Barbara Broccoli. “You just have to look after each other. We’re all adults. We know what it’s about and try to make the scene as real as you can.”
A journey back to the 1940s
“Queer” is an adaptation of William S. Burroughs’ novel of the same name. The film is set in 1940s Mexico, centering on an American writer, played by Craig, who becomes infatuated with a young fellow expatriate portrayed by Drew Starkey. This period piece promises to transport viewers to a time of post-war tension and bohemian lifestyles.
One notable aspect of Craig’s character is his appearance. His nails are perpetually dirty, creating a visceral authenticity. Craig explained, “In the 1940s, people didn’t shower as much, maybe once a week. We wanted the ink under his nails because he’s a writer, even though there are no scenes of him writing. This little detail reminds us of his profession.”
Balancing addiction without glorification
Burroughs’ life and work were heavily influenced by his battles with addiction, a theme that is subtly interwoven throughout the film. Craig delved into this aspect of his character, stating, “I have friends who are junkies. I’ve seen how it affects them. We didn’t want this film to become a study of an addict. Burroughs was a functioning addict until he died. He took it very seriously.”
This delicate handling of addiction underscores the film’s commitment to portraying a realistic yet respectful depiction of Burroughs’ struggles, steering clear of romanticizing the darker aspects of his life.
The undeniable chemistry with Drew Starkey
When discussing his on-screen chemistry with Drew Starkey, Craig couldn’t help but express his admiration. “He’s such a beautiful human being. We lucked out with Drew. Having someone that young and dedicated onboard makes everything much easier.”
Although Craig admitted he has never watched “Outer Banks,” he acknowledged Starkey’s rising star status. “I know he’s a big star. He’s very grown-up and knows what he’s doing. Working with dedicated individuals is always a pleasure.”
A fresh take on a classic narrative
“Queer” offers a fresh perspective on William S. Burroughs’ classic novel, under the directorial vision of Luca Guadagnino. The film revisits themes of love, addiction, and identity through a contemporary lens, while staying true to its historical context.
With a talented cast and a sharply focused narrative, “Queer” is poised to make a significant impact upon its release. Its exploration of deep, often uncomfortable topics, paired with strong performances, promises to provide audiences with both thought-provoking and emotionally engaging cinema.
“Queer” is slated for release in theaters on November 27. Stay tuned for what is sure to be a compelling addition to this year’s film landscape.
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