Luca Guadagnino's 'Queer' Premieres at Venice, Starring Daniel Craig

Luca Guadagnino's adaptation of 'Queer' by William S. Burroughs premiered at the Venice Film Festival, featuring Daniel Craig as William Lee. The film explores Lee's solitary existence in 1950s Mexico City, disrupted by the arrival of Eugene Allerton. The screenplay is penned by Justin Kuritzkes.

Luca Guadagnino's much-anticipated adaptation of William S. Burroughs' novel 'Queer' premiered at the Venice Film Festival, debuting Daniel Craig in a pivotal role. The film, unveiled on Monday evening, portrays Craig as William Lee, an American expatriate living a solitary life in 1950s Mexico City.

The narrative takes a compelling turn with the entrance of Eugene Allerton, played by Drew Starkey. Allerton, a young student, transforms Lee's isolated existence, as the story delves into Lee's quest for meaningful connection. This shift profoundly impacts Lee's previously self-contained world.

Shot at Rome's renowned Cinecitta studio, 'Queer' features a notable cast including Lesley Manville, Jason Schwartzman, and David Lowery. Justin Kuritzkes, also responsible for the 'Challengers' screenplay, enriches the film's narrative texture.

Returning to the Venice Film Festival after 'Challengers,' Guadagnino shared his personal ties to the project, recalling how Burroughs' book influenced him as a lonely teenager in Palermo. He stated that the characters' connections deeply transformed his outlook on life.

The Venice screening marks a key moment for Guadagnino, who has previously debuted films like 'A Bigger Splash' and 'Bones and All' at the prestigious festival.

(With inputs from agencies.)