Drew Starkey, known for his role in Outer Banks, believes American audiences are uptight when it comes to sex scenes in movies. In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, he expressed his thoughts on the topic, stating that intimate scenes can make moviegoers uncomfortable. Starkey is starring in the upcoming film Queer alongside Daniel Craig, where he plays a student named Eugene who becomes the object of the protagonist, William Lee, played by Craig. He believes that integrating sexuality into stories is important for better understanding individuals.
The actor shared his experience working on Queer, mentioning that he was proud to bring profound on-screen intimacy to cinemas. Starkey discussed the importance of exploring sexuality in storytelling and how it can be a way to learn more about people. He also revealed that he and Craig delved into their characters’ intimate scenes early on during rehearsals, which helped establish comfort and familiarity between them. The film made its world premiere at the Venice Film Festival and received an 11-minute and 44-second standing ovation, showcasing the positive reception it received from the audience.
During the Venice Film Festival, the spotlight was on director Luca Guadagnino and actor Daniel Craig. Guadagnino, aged 53, received praise from the audience, with chants of his name echoing before the standing ovation. Craig, known for his role as James Bond, sported a new hairstyle for the occasion, drawing attention and admiration from fans on social media. His long, luscious tresses were a hit during the Queer photocall and premiere, with one social media user describing him as “SCRUMPTIOUS with that longer hair at Venice.”
Starkey’s involvement in Queer marks a significant step in his acting career, allowing him to showcase his talent and participate in a unique project that explores deep themes through intimate storytelling. The film’s adaptation of William S. Burroughs’ novel, paired with the direction of Guadagnino, has brought attention to the artistry and boldness of the production. Starkey’s willingness to embrace challenging roles and engage in intimate scenes demonstrates his dedication to his craft and the importance of portraying complex characters on screen.
As American audiences continue to evolve in their perception of sexuality and intimacy in film, actors like Starkey and Craig play a vital role in pushing boundaries and bringing powerful narratives to the screen. The positive reception of Queer at the Venice Film Festival highlights the audience’s appreciation for artful storytelling that delves into profound themes. By integrating sexuality into stories and exploring intimate relationships on screen, filmmakers and actors contribute to a deeper understanding of human behavior and emotions, creating a rich tapestry of storytelling for audiences to engage with.
