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Luca Guadagnino’s Queer, starring Daniel Craig, Omar Apollo, and Drew Starkey, has won critical acclaim yet was completely shut out of the 2025 BAFTA nominations. The snub has sparked debate among fans and critics, with some questioning whether lingering biases against LGBTQ+ storytelling played a role.

Written by Justin Kuritzkes, the film is set in 1950s Mexico City and follows William Lee (Daniel Craig), an outcast American expatriate struggling with addiction and loneliness. His fixation on a much younger man, played by Drew Starkey, drives the narrative into a world of obsession, desire, and emotional unravelling.

Featuring a supporting cast that includes Jason Schwartzman, Henry Zaga, Omar Apollo, and Lesley Manville, Queer has made waves for its unflinching portrayal of love and longing.

Despite its strong international reception, Queer failed to secure a single BAFTA nomination. This stands in contrast to Emilia Pérez, another LGBTQ+ film, which received 11 nominations. The omission has reignited discussions about whether the industry fairly recognises films that explore queerness beyond mainstream conventions.

Fans have also pointed out that Craig’s history with BAFTA has been limited—despite his long career, he has only received one nomination, for Casino Royale in 2006. Many argue his performance in Queer is one of his most vulnerable and transformative yet.

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Known for his distinctive, sensual approach to storytelling, Guadagnino (Call Me by Your Name) infuses Queer with lush visuals, moody cinematography, and emotionally charged sequences. From dimly lit bars to the humid, restless streets of Mexico City, the film captures an era of longing and repression with an intensity that lingers long after the credits roll. Craig’s performance as William Lee is at the centre—raw, desperate, and utterly captivating.

For Apollo, stepping into an explicitly queer role felt natural. “I got the call, and they told me about the scene and how explicit it was. I instantly just said yes,” he shared in an interview. “It’s not something that’s new to me.”

Although missing out on BAFTA recognition is disappointing, Queer remains a significant achievement in LGBTQ+ cinema. Its fearless storytelling and standout performances ensure that it will continue to be discussed and celebrated.

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