Deadline has exclusively learned that A24 has secured the U.S. distribution rights for Luca Guadagnino's upcoming masterpiece, 'Queer,' starring the legendary Daniel Craig. Ever since I was privy to early footage of this cinematic gem in Italy a year ago, A24 has been the obvious choice for the filmmakers, given their impeccable track record in navigating boundary-pushing narratives, mirroring the unconventional path Craig himself blazed with his 007 persona.
With CAA Media Finance orchestrating the screenings for distributors in late June, whispers of A24's interest were rife, amidst fierce competition from other suitors. However, A24 emerged victorious, sealing the deal, and all signs point towards a triumphant theatrical release.
'Queer' is poised to make its world premiere at the prestigious Venice Film Festival, followed by a North American debut at TIFF, and further gracing the spotlight with a Gala presentation at the New York Film Festival. Guadagnino, fresh off the success of 'Challengers,' which catapulted him to box office stardom with its $15 million domestic opening weekend and over $94 million global haul, reunites with screenwriter Justin Kuritzkes for this adaptation of William S. Burroughs' seminal work.
Shot swiftly at Cinecitta Studios in Rome, where Zendaya's vibrant Mexico-set film recently wrapped, 'Queer' brings together an eclectic cast that includes Drew Starkey, Oscar-nominated Lesley Manville, Jason Schwartzman, Andra Ursuta, Michael Borremans, and David Lowery.
Set against the vibrant backdrop of 1950s Mexico City, 'Queer' tells the tale of William Lee, an American expatriate in his twilight years, who leads a solitary existence amidst a tight-knit American expat community. But the arrival of Eugene Allerton, a young and vivacious student, ignites a spark within William, prompting him to forge a profound connection that transcends the ordinary.
Produced by Fremantle, Fremantle North America, Lorenzo Mieli's The Apartment, and Guadagnino's Frenesy Film Company, in collaboration with Cinecitta and Frame by Frame, with financing provided by the Fremantle Group, 'Queer' promises to be a visually stunning and emotionally resonant exploration of human connection and self-discovery.
