Daniel Craig's 'Queer' Drama Premieres on BBC Tonight
James Bond fans and cinephiles alike are in for a treat as Daniel Craig steps far from the suave spy world into the raw, introspective territory of Luca Guadagnino's Queer. Airing tonight at 11pm on BBC Two, this 'extraordinary' drama co-stars the acclaimed Lesley Manville and promises a deep dive into themes of longing and identity. Based on William S. Burroughs' unfinished 1985 novella, the film has already garnered critical acclaim and award nominations, making it a must-watch event for UK audiences.
What is 'Queer' About?
Set in the vibrant yet shadowy underbelly of 1950s Mexico City, Queer follows William Lee (Craig), an American expat grappling with existential emptiness after fleeing his life in New York. His days blur into a haze of typewriter clacking, bug extermination gigs, and narcotic-fueled nights until he meets the enigmatic Eugene Allerton (Drew Starkey). What begins as casual flirtation spirals into an all-consuming infatuation, exploring the blurred lines between desire, addiction, and self-discovery.
The novella's incomplete nature infuses the story with a haunting ambiguity, leaving viewers with that lingering 'what's next?' sensation Burroughs intended. Screenwriter Justin Kuritzkes masterfully expands on this foundation, blending period authenticity with modern emotional resonance. Guadagnino, known for sensual masterpieces like Call Me by Your Name and Bones and All, directs with his signature intimacy, using lush cinematography to capture the humid, neon-lit streets of Mexico City.
Behind the Scenes: A Star-Studded Ensemble
While Craig anchors the film, the supporting cast adds layers of intrigue. Lesley Manville, a British acting powerhouse with credits in The Crown and Magnolia, brings her dramatic heft to a key role that intertwines with Craig's character, heightening the emotional stakes. Drew Starkey, rising from Netflix's Outer Banks, embodies Allerton's aloof allure, creating electric chemistry with Craig.
Further enriching the lineup are Jason Schwartzman (Asteroid City), who infuses his scenes with quirky depth; Omar Apollo, the singer-actor adding musicality to the narrative; and even a cameo from director David Lowery (The Green Knight). A24's production values shine through, with meticulous costumes and a score that pulses with restrained tension.
Critical Reception and Award Buzz
Despite a modest box office showing upon its late 2024 theatrical release, Queer has triumphed with critics, holding a solid 77% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes from 245 reviews. Praise has centered on its bold storytelling and Craig's transformative performance, marking a departure from his 15-year Bond tenure.
The Financial Times lauded, 'This complex churn of emotions demands much from Craig, and he proves equal to the task. It is a pleasure to see him so loosey-goosey after his tightly controlled 15-year turn as 007 and he gives possibly his finest performance to date.' Associated Press echoed, 'The weight of it all comes down to Craig, and he’s a wonder in a fedora, dirt stains on his linen pants.' Rolling Stone deemed it 'beautiful, filthy [and] extraordinary,' capturing its unapologetic sensuality.
Not all reactions were unanimous; Empire Magazine noted, '[It's] a feverish, quietly sad exploration of longing and infatuation. Its lack of focus stifles the experience, but Daniel Craig has rarely been as compelling a watch.' This mixed narrative feedback underscores the film's experimental edge, prioritizing mood over plot.
Craig's portrayal earned him Best Actor nominations at the Golden Globes and Screen Actors Guild Awards, validating his pivot to more vulnerable roles post-No Time to Die. In an exclusive Digital Spy interview, Craig reflected on the themes: 'There are a number of things happening because the book is incomplete. The feeling that you have at the end of the book is the feeling that he wants you to feel, which is sort of an emptiness and a kind of "What? What's next?"'
Craig's Evolution Beyond Bond
For audiences accustomed to Craig's steely 007, Queer offers a revelation. At 56, the Liverpool-born actor sheds the tailored suits for rumpled linens, revealing a vulnerability that's both startling and mesmerizing. This role aligns with his recent choices, like the poignant Glass Onion or the intense Knives Out, signaling a post-Bond era focused on character-driven stories. Yet, whispers of his potential return to the franchise linger, with Callum Turner rumored as a contender for the next 007.
How and Where to Watch 'Queer' in the UK
Tonight's BBC Two broadcast at 11pm marks the film's UK TV premiere, following its Mubi streaming debut. If you can't catch it live, it will be available on-demand via BBC iPlayer shortly after, ensuring easy access for binge-watchers. This airing coincides with a surge in interest for LGBTQ+ narratives, positioning Queer as a timely cultural touchstone.
For those planning a movie night, pair it with Burroughs' original novella or Guadagnino's earlier works. UK viewers should note that while Bond films shuffle streaming homes – recently leaving Netflix – Queer stands alone as a fresh, independent gem.
Broader Impact and Future Prospects
Queer's release underscores Hollywood's growing embrace of queer stories, especially those rooted in literary icons like Burroughs. Its underperformance at the box office may reflect audience fatigue with arthouse fare, but streaming metrics on Mubi suggest a dedicated following. As Craig eyes future projects – perhaps more spy thrillers or intimate dramas – this film cements his status as one of cinema's most versatile leading men.
In a landscape dominated by blockbusters, Queer reminds us of film's power to provoke and unsettle. Tune in tonight; you won't want to miss Daniel Craig at his most unguarded.
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