Queer (2024) Movie Review – Where to Watch Online
Luca Guadagnino’s Queer (2024) is a powerful adaptation of William S. Burroughs’ semi-autobiographical novel, blending raw emotion with surreal visuals. Featuring an astonishing performance by Daniel Craig, the film stands out as a moving portrayal of obsession, self-discovery, and queer identity. The film debuted at the Venice Film Festival in September 2024, receiving wide acclaim for its bold narrative and visually stunning cinematography. In this article, we will explore the plot, performance highlights, and predictions on when and where it might be available for streaming in the U.S.
Plot Overview
Queer is set in the post-World War II era of the 1950s in Mexico City. Craig plays William Lee, a disillusioned American expatriate who is modeled after Burroughs himself. Lee spends his days indulging in alcohol, drugs, and casual encounters with men, haunted by his own feelings of isolation and rejection. His life changes when he meets Eugene (Drew Starkey), a young American man who is straight, or at least appears to be. Eugene becomes the object of Lee’s intense infatuation, setting the stage for a relationship riddled with ambiguity, power dynamics, and unreciprocated desire.
The plot follows Lee and Eugene’s complex relationship, where Lee’s obsessive love for Eugene leads them on a journey through Mexico and eventually to the Ecuadorian jungle. Their trip is fueled by Lee’s desire to try Yagé (ayahuasca), a hallucinogenic plant said to have telepathic properties. Lee believes this might help him understand Eugene better and bridge the emotional gap between them. The story masterfully oscillates between gritty realism and vivid, surreal dream sequences, highlighting Lee’s internal struggles and the complexities of queer love.
Daniel Craig’s Captivating Performance
Daniel Craig shines in Queer, delivering one of his most remarkable performances to date. Far removed from his stoic portrayal of James Bond, Craig embodies the vulnerability, intensity, and often erratic behavior of William Lee. In every scene, Craig brings a sense of raw, unapologetic emotion that keeps viewers glued to the screen. His portrayal of a man struggling with both his addiction and his overwhelming feelings for Eugene is captivating, making Lee’s character both relatable and tragic.
The chemistry between Craig and Starkey is also a highlight, particularly in scenes where the tension between desire and indifference is palpable. Starkey’s portrayal of Eugene, with his enigmatic behavior and refusal to fully engage with Lee’s advances, adds depth to their turbulent relationship.
Guadagnino’s Direction and Visual Mastery
Luca Guadagnino’s direction is nothing short of masterful. Known for his ability to capture the essence of longing and desire in films like Call Me by Your Name (2017), Guadagnino brings a unique visual language to Queer. Cinematographer Sayombhu Mukdeeprom enhances the film with rich, saturated colors that evoke the vibrancy of Mexico City’s queer subculture in the 1950s. The film alternates between gritty street scenes and dream-like sequences, with hallucinatory moments underscoring Lee’s emotional turmoil and the surreal nature of his quest for connection.
The use of Nirvana’s “Come As You Are” in key moments further elevates the film, creating a juxtaposition between the 1950s setting and a modern soundtrack. This anachronistic musical choice helps emphasize the universality of the film’s themes of longing, rejection, and self-discovery.
Themes and Symbolism
At its core, Queer is a story about unrequited love and the search for identity in a world that marginalizes queer people. Burroughs’ novel was considered controversial for its time, and Guadagnino embraces the provocative nature of the material, delving deep into the intricacies of sexual desire, addiction, and existential loneliness.
One of the film’s most significant themes is the concept of self-acceptance. Lee’s character grapples with internalized homophobia and societal expectations, yet ultimately embraces his queer identity. His obsession with Eugene becomes symbolic of his desire for self-understanding. Guadagnino also weaves in elements of magical realism, particularly through the use of Yagé as a metaphor for Lee’s quest to connect with Eugene on a deeper, almost spiritual level.
Where to Watch Queer Online: Predictions and Future Streaming Availability
As of September 2024, Queer is currently in theatrical release and has not yet been made available for streaming. However, given the involvement of A24 and Fremantle in the production, it’s likely that the film will be available on streaming platforms soon after its theatrical run concludes.
Likely Streaming Platforms in the U.S.
- Amazon Prime Video: A24 frequently partners with Amazon Prime for streaming releases. Films like Uncut Gems and The Lighthouse have made their way to this platform after their theatrical release, making Amazon Prime a strong contender for Queer‘s online debut.
- HBO Max: Another possible streaming destination could be HBO Max. With its robust catalog of independent films and its ongoing partnership with A24, there’s a good chance that Queer will eventually land here.
- Apple TV+: A24 has also distributed several films on Apple TV+, including The Tragedy of Macbeth and On the Rocks. Given this relationship, it’s possible that Queer could be added to Apple’s growing collection of high-quality films.
Rental and Purchase Options
If you’re eager to watch Queer but don’t have access to the aforementioned platforms, expect it to be available for rental and purchase through digital platforms like:
- Apple iTunes
- Google Play Movies & TV
- Vudu
- YouTube Movies
Most A24 films follow a similar release pattern, with rental options becoming available a few months after the theatrical run.
Conclusion
Queer (2024) is a stunningly crafted film that captures the raw emotional landscape of William S. Burroughs’ semi-autobiographical novel. With an outstanding performance by Daniel Craig and visionary direction by Luca Guadagnino, the movie offers a deep dive into the complexities of queer love, addiction, and self-discovery. While the film is currently playing in theaters, audiences can expect to see it on popular streaming platforms like Amazon Prime Video, HBO Max, or Apple TV+ in the coming months.
For fans of thought-provoking cinema, Queer is a must-watch, offering an unforgettable journey into the mind of a man consumed by desire and the quest for connection. Keep an eye out for its upcoming streaming release and prepare to be moved by its profound storytelling and mesmerizing visuals.
