Daniel Craig’s 18+ Film Receives Nine-Minute Ovation at Venice Film Festival
The film Queer, starring Daniel Craig, captivated audiences at the 2024 Venice Film Festival with its portrayal of a same-sex love story. The movie garnered significant attention during its screening on September 3, with critics hailing Craig’s performance as one of the finest of his career. As the applause began, Craig was seen emotionally embracing the film’s director, Luca Guadagnino. Many in the audience, including renowned filmmaker Pedro Almodóvar, shouted Guadagnino’s name in admiration. Almodóvar, who previously directed The Room Next Door, which received a 17-minute ovation, was present to congratulate the team.
Film critics praised Craig’s portrayal of the complex character. The Guardian noted, “Craig embodies the role so completely that his co-stars often pale in comparison.” The Financial Times remarked: “Craig captures the intricate psychological transformation, proving his capability beyond his 15 years as James Bond. This is arguably his best performance yet.”
Queer, a contender for the prestigious Golden Lion, is adapted from the novel by William S. Burroughs. Set in 1940s Mexico, it follows William Lee (played by Craig), a drug addict who becomes infatuated with Eugene Allerton (Drew Starkey), a retired U.S. Navy officer. The film features bold and provocative scenes, highlighting William’s quest to communicate telepathically with Eugene through a mysterious drug.
Ahead of the Venice premiere, festival director Alberto Barbera predicted Craig as a strong contender for Best Actor. “There are two standout performances this year: Daniel Craig in Queer and Joaquin Phoenix in Joker 2,” Barbera stated.
While many applauded the film, some viewers were less impressed. Dozens of audience members walked out during a press screening. Screen Daily criticized the film for feeling superficial and lacking the depth of the original novel, while The Times described it as visually striking but confusing in its messaging.
In a pre-screening press conference, Guadagnino explained that Drew Starkey was chosen after outperforming over 300 actors in the casting process. The film’s cast also includes Omar Apollo, Lesley Manville, Jason Schwartzman, Henrique Zaga, and Andra Ursuta.
Daniel Craig, 56, best known for his role as James Bond, first stepped into the role of the iconic spy in 2005. Initially met with skepticism due to his height and blond hair, Craig won over fans with his powerful performances, starting with Casino Royale in 2006. He went on to star in Quantum of Solace, Skyfall, Spectre, and his final Bond film, No Time to Die (2021).
Craig has been married to actress Rachel Weisz since 2011, and the couple has a six-year-old daughter. Queer marks Craig’s first participation in the Venice Film Festival.
