Daniel Craig on ‘Queer’ Sex Scenes, Playing a Heroin Addict and Knowing Drew Starkey Was a ‘Huge Star’ Without Ever Seeing ‘Outer Banks’

As a seasoned movie enthusiast with years of cinematic exploration under my belt, I must say, Daniel Craig‘s portrayal in “Queer” is nothing short of captivating. The gritty realism he brings to his character is both compelling and unsettling, much like the feeling one gets when they realize they haven’t bathed in a week.


In the series “Queer,” up-and-coming singer Omar Apollo takes on his first acting role as a character who engages in a romantic scene with Daniel Craig. However, Craig reassures that there was no need for him to comfort or calm down the newcomer during filming.

Craig expressed to me at the recent Barbara Broccoli-hosted showing of the Luca Guadagnino film, “Omar is a truly wonderful individual.” He added, “It’s essential we care for one another. That’s the key. We’re all mature enough to understand the context and strive to keep things authentic as possible during the scene.

The movie, titled after William S. Burroughs’ novel, features Craig as a U.S. author living in 1940s Mexico who develops feelings for another young American expatriate, portrayed by the rising star from “Outer Banks”, Drew Starkey.

You appear so dirty in the movie. Your nails are filthy. Did you just want to take a shower all the time?

In the 1940s, I didn’t bathe as frequently, perhaps once a week. Yet, we desired the character portrayed to have ink stains under his fingernails because he’s a writer, even though there were no scenes of him writing in the film. We intended to subtly convey this by showing the ink stains, serving as a constant reminder that he is indeed a writer.

I’m in recovery and I have to say I could feel the drugs and the alcohol seeping throughout the movie. There was this almost trippy feeling.

I perceive this as a flattering remark. Although I have acquaintances who struggled with addiction, I’ve observed the devastating impact it had on their lives. However, our intention wasn’t to create a portrayal of an addict for this film, as I don’t believe that’s its essence. Furthermore, let’s be straightforward: Burroughs was a functional addict throughout his life until his passing in 1997 at the age of 83. He treated his addiction with great seriousness.

What was your chemistry read like with Drew?

He’s an exceptionally charming individual, it was fortunate for us that he agreed to star in the film at such a young age, displaying not only dedication but also a remarkable understanding of the world around him.

Have you watched “Outer Banks?”

Affirmatively speaking: “Yes, indeed, he’s not just anyone I’ve worked with, but a veritable superstar in the industry. This man towers over many, maturity exuding from every pore, and his professional demeanor is unparalleled. He’s utterly dedicated to his craft, which makes collaboration an effortless delight.

“Queer” is set for release in theaters Nov. 27.

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2024-10-11 02:16