Lee, who recounts his life in Mexico City among American expatriate college students and bar owners surviving on part-time jobs and GI Bill benefits. He is driven to pursue a young man named Allerton, who is based on Adelbert Lewis Marker.

‘Queer’ was, without a doubt, one of my most anticipated films of 2024. With Luca Guadagnino in the director’s chair, the immensely talented Daniel Craig in the lead role, and a score by the legendary duo Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross, it seemed like a sure-fire hit. However, despite its impressive craftsmanship and strong performances, the film ultimately suffers from an identity crisis, leaving viewers puzzled by its intentions.

To start on a positive note, Daniel Craig delivers one of his most compelling performances to date. Playing Lee, a gay man in 1950s Mexico struggling with both his identity and substance addiction, Craig’s portrayal is nuanced and deeply felt. He balances moments of restraint with bursts of intensity, creating a character who is both captivating and tragic. If ‘Queer’ is aiming for awards recognition, Craig’s performance is undoubtedly its strongest contender.

Technically, ‘Queer’ is a marvel. Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross once again prove their versatility, delivering a haunting, atmospheric score that lingers long after the credits roll. Their music enhances the film’s mood, guiding the audience through its highs and lows. The production and costume design are equally impressive, with meticulous attention to detail that transports the audience to 1950s Mexico. Everything from the décor to the texture of the walls captures the period with authenticity, immersing viewers in the world Guadagnino has crafted.

Unfortunately, the film’s stunning visuals and brilliant performances cannot compensate for its uneven screenplay and direction. ‘Queer’ feels unsure of what it wants to be, transitioning from a character study to a love story and then veering into sci-fi territory. These genre shifts are jarring, and while some of the surreal, mind-bending scenes are fascinating on their own, they ultimately feel disconnected from the rest of the narrative. It’s the kind of film that invites contemplation, and while some might argue that it’s meant to provoke thought and discussion, it ends up feeling more confusing than profound. If there is a deeper message within these shifting tones, it is lost in translation.

The central relationship between Lee (Craig) and Allerton (played by Starkey) is another stumbling block. The dynamic is supposed to explore Lee’s infatuation and addiction, but the lack of development in Allerton’s character makes the connection feel one-sided and, frankly, unbelievable. While it’s clear that Allerton is less invested than Lee, the film fails to establish why he remains in Lee’s orbit, leaving their adventures and connection feeling hollow. This portrayal of a queer relationship raises questions about the film’s intentions—whether it’s trying to explore unhealthy attachments or simply failing to flesh out its characters. Guadagnino, a director with an obvious passion for the material (as evidenced by the pre-screening Q&A), clearly had good intentions, but the film’s execution falls short in making their bond believable or emotionally resonant.

Ultimately, while ‘Queer’ boasts one of the year’s standout performances from Daniel Craig and showcases impeccable production value, it’s let down by an inconsistent screenplay and a lack of narrative cohesion. It’s an intriguing watch, but viewers may find themselves leaving the theater asking, “What was the point?”

**Rating: 6/10**