Queer review: Daniel Craig’s drastic mission to kill off his Bond image will leave you shaken, writes LARUSHKA IVAN-ZADEH

As a lifestyle expert with a penchant for unique experiences and a discerning eye for quality entertainment, I must say that the film “Queer” is not one for the average viewer. Daniel Craig delivers an intense performance as a troubled character, but the plotless narrative and graphic content make it more suitable for mature audiences and perhaps not the best choice for family viewing.

Verdict: Do say never again 

Shaken Bond fans may require a large Martini to brave Queer. 

Daniel Craig is making a significant shift away from his James Bond character by assuming the part of a vulnerable, heavy-drinking, drug-dependent, exploitative gay man who frequents bars and pursues younger males, leading to explicit, intense sexual scenes.

Let’s say, it’s not one to watch with the family on Christmas Day.

In a similar vein to William S. Burroughs’ Beat-era novel, albeit devoid of its more disturbing elements, Queer presents a grim narrative of fear and self-contempt set in 1950s Mexico City (despite being filmed on an Italian studio lot).

In this setting, the American expatriate Lee (portrayed by Craig) develops a fixation on a former U.S. Navy personnel, Drew Starkey, who appears emotionally detached and strikingly attractive.

Is the young man homosexual? Lee isn’t sure, but he’s curious to discover the truth. From then on, these two individuals take turns getting intoxicated and engaging in sexual activities, or simply drinking without any such activities, repetitively.

Jason Schwartzman brings a delightful warmth and comedic touch to his character, portraying a cheerful, over-sized suit-wearing individual (apparently, it seems there are exceptions to the no-overalls rule?) who finds himself frequently robbed by the casual partners with whom he shares intimate moments.

Nevertheless, this seemingly aimless endeavor lacks direction until an unexpected third act unfolds. In this turn of events, the pair embark on a strange journey into the dense South American rainforest due to Lee’s fascination with telepathy. There, they cross paths with Lesley Manville, who brandishes firearms, grapple with a venomous serpent, and even delve into each other’s inner selves.

To be fair, Craig has some magnificent moments.

In my perspective as a lifestyle expert, one cannot overlook the powerful and impactful moment when Lee takes heroin, his gaze fixed intensely on the camera, exuding both agony and profound emotion.

Burroughs would undoubtedly be thrilled to witness his alternate self portrayed so impressively by a specimen like Craig. Craig’s physique suggests a man sculpted from green smoothies and weightlifting rather than cigarettes, narcotics, and tequila.

Film director Luca Guadagnino, known for movies such as “Challengers” and “Call Me By Your Name,” excels in delving into themes of power dynamics and longing.

It’s hard for me to understand his point, but it seems clear that Lee deeply desires intimacy, yet unfortunately, he cannot achieve it.

And yet, despite Craig’s committed performance, you fail to feel Lee’s agony.

Guadagnino exhibits bold filmmaking skills, yet some moments showcase genuine elegance amidst this seemingly heartless production with an overabundance of heat.

In other words, by taking on this role, Craig successfully demonstrated his acting skills again, silencing those who doubted him, and effectively ended James Bond’s career. Mission accomplished.

From Roger Moore With Love (12A, 79 mins 

Verdict: Licence to thrill 

If It’s a Bond fix you’re after, my recommendation is From Roger Moore With Love.

This lively portrayal perfectly encapsulates the essence of its subject, who is both humble and captivating, yet perhaps lacks depth. I found it delightful.

Describing him with a quizzical raised eyebrow, we delve into the story of how The Saint’s original actor developed his charming, sophisticated character, which he flawlessly portrayed both on-screen and in real life throughout his entire career.

According to former Bond girl Jane Seymour, among several close friends interviewed, she stated that he simply possessed something extraordinary.

The man is universally admired, and unlike Mr. Craig, Moore gracefully portrayed James Bond up until the point where his most recent Bond companion commented that he resembled her father.

A man who adored speedy automobiles, opulent dwellings, and beautiful women, lived a life without remorse and savored each precious second. What a delightful way to live.

Verdict: Supervillain turkey 

As an ardent admirer, I can’t help but express my anticipation for the upcoming addition to Sony’s Spider-Man Universe – Kraven The Hunter. Following the perceived missteps of Madame Web and Morbius, this origin story revolves around the transformation of Aaron Taylor-Johnson’s character, initially Sergei, a well-mannered eldest son, into the notorious comic book villain Kraven. In this tale, we encounter Russell Crowe portraying a ruthless Russian drug lord, complete with his distinctive dodge ski accent.

Dad instructs his boys: ‘We are predators. They are prey.’

As an overly enthusiastic admirer, I’d put it this way: When I, a passionate safari-goer named Sergei, find myself in a life-threatening encounter with a majestic lion, a string of unforeseen occurrences grants me enigmatic superpowers. With these powers, I embark on an extraordinary journey to track down and punish the ruthless poachers who mercilessly hunt our beloved big game animals. However, the plot is so intricately complex that it’s reminiscent of a tattered rug with more holes than fabric.

In this scenario, you have a villain named ‘The Rhino’, played by Alessandro Nivola, who happens to be an assassin. Additionally, there’s ‘The Foreigner’, portrayed by Christopher Abbott. Lastly, there’s Calypso, a compelling female character, who is both a tarot-card reading lawyer and an investigator. She has a hidden past that remains a secret.

She can keep it.

At the premiere, the computer-generated imagery was poor, and the script was so bad it made people laugh. So, don’t get too excited about a potential Kraven 2.

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2024-12-13 04:36