Daniel Craig and Drew Starkey Discuss Challenges of Playing Gay Characters in Upcoming Film "Queer"
Daniel Craig and Drew Starkey discuss their roles as gay characters in the upcoming film "Queer," based on a novella by William Burroughs. Craig portrays William Lee, a war veteran, while Starkey plays Eugene Allerton, a younger man struggling with addiction. Both actors, who are straight in real life, emphasize the importance of trust in the director and the process to create authentic portrayals. They aim to convey universal themes and depict their characters' romantic relationship with sensitivity. Their performances include intimate scenes designed to feel genuine and relatable, prompting strong reactions from audiences and film festival attendees.
Daniel Craig and Drew Starkey have shared their thoughts on portraying gay characters in the upcoming film Queer. The actors discussed their experiences during an interview with Variety ahead of the film's release, highlighting significant themes of the narrative.
Craig and Starkey Represent Complex Characters
The film Queer, adapted from William Burroughs' semi-autobiographical novella, features Daniel Craig as William Lee, an American expatriate and war veteran entangled in a romance with Drew Starkey's character, Eugene Allerton, who is depicted as a young drug addict and former Navy serviceman. Reflecting on their roles, both actors, while straight in real life, have expressed a sense of trust in the directorial vision and storytelling process.
Understanding the Character's Journey
Drew Starkey, 31, noted that the nuances of their sexuality were not a focal point during the audition process led by director Luca Guadagnino. He mentioned that the director did not delve into the complexities of their sexual identities. This perspective allowed them to focus on the broader themes of love and connection that the film aims to convey, unfolding a narrative with universal relevance.
Approaching Intimacy with Sensitivity
Craig elaborated on the need for a director with sensitivity to authentically portray love scenes on screen. He emphasized past experiences with poorly executed intimate scenes in film, stating the importance of making these moments feel genuine. Luca Guadagnino underscored a philosophy of allowing audiences to surrender to the narrative without feeling a sense of artificiality.
Embracing Vulnerability in Performance
As filming progressed, both actors learned to leave their egos behind, focusing on the story and the authenticity of their performances. Starkey remarked on Craig's freedom as an actor, acknowledging the environment of trust that allowed them to explore their characters fully. This approach fostered a dynamic performance depicted in the film, which includes a range of intimate scenes showcasing their evolving relationship.
Trailblazing Scenes in Mainstream Cinema
The recently released trailer has drawn attention for its candid portrayal of intimacy, featuring Craig's character navigating the vibrant streets of Mexico City and engaging in profound moments with Starkey's character. The trailer reveals visuals of their connection, leading to intimate encounters that aim to portray the depth of their relationship.
World Premiere Insights at Venice Film Festival
During the Venice Film Festival, Craig discussed the intention behind the love scenes, emphasizing their aim for authenticity and emotional resonance. Festival delegates have expressed surprised reactions to the boldness and realism of the intimate scenes, noting their uniqueness within mainstream cinema, pushing boundaries of representation in film.
