A24 has acquired the US distribution rights to “Queer,” the new film from Academy Award-nominated director Luca Guadagnino.
The Daniel Craig-led film, due out this year, will have its world premiere at the 81st Venice Film Festival on September 3.
Set in 1950s Mexico City, “Queer” William Lee (Craig), an American expat in his late 40s, leads a lonely life in the midst of a small American community. However, the arrival in town of a young student, Eugene Allerton (Drew Starkey), prompts William to finally make a meaningful connection with someone. Lesley Manville, Jason Schwartzman, Andra Ursuta, Michael Borremans and David Lowery also star.
“Queer” was written for the screen by Guadagnino’s “Challengers” collaborator, Justin Kuritzkes, who wrote American author William S. Adapted from Burroughs’ novel of the same name.
“‘Queer’ is a labor of love, and we couldn’t be more excited that our film has found a home with a studio that’s bold, mainstream and shines on a route like the A24,” Craig and Guadagnino said in a joint statement. “It’s our deepest honor to finally bring Burroughs’ legendary novel to life on screen for the first time, and we feel so grateful and excited to present it alongside our treasured collaborators. We couldn’t have asked for better partners on this journey.”
In addition to premiering in competition in Venice in 2022, where Guadagnino won the best director award, “Queer” will have its North American premiere as a special presentation at the Toronto International Film Festival and serve as New York’s Spotlight Gala. Film festival.
Drew Starkey and Daniel Craig in “Queer”
Yannis Dragoulitis
“Queer” was produced by Fremantle, Fremantle North America, Lorenzo Mieli, The Apartment, Fremantle Group and Luca Guadagnino for his Frenesy Film company in association with Cinecitta and Frame by Frame. Fremantle Group financed the film.
“‘Queer,’ a true milestone in filmmaking and storytelling, we’re thrilled to be getting a US release from A24,” said Fremantle’s Andrea Scrosati. “A24 is the perfect partner for Luca Guadagnino’s beautiful and delicate film, and we all look forward to working with their great team.”
CAA Media Finance brokered the deal.