Drew Starkey, Omar Apollo and Daniel Craig star in Queer, Luca Guadagninos steamy adaptation of William S. Burroughs novella. But despite critical acclaim, the film was completely overlooked by the 2025 BAFTA nominations. Fans are questioning whether ongoing stigmas surrounding LGBTQ+ storytelling contributed to the snub.A Risky, Raw Story Left UnrewardedCraig plays William Lee, an addict grappling with loneliness in 1950s Mexico, while Apollo portrays a bar patron who sparks an intimate and explicit moment on screen with Lee. Apollos first film role brought the singer to Instagram with cheeky behind-the-scenes snapshots, but his celebration wasnt without controversy.After posting a censored still from the film, Apollo called out homophobic reactions from followers. Unfollow me if ur a homophobe, he wrote. I will never make myself palatable. This isnt my life, I AM life.Craig, who received Golden Globe and SAG Award nominations for his performance, previously reflected on playing a gay character, noting, The movies not defined by [Williams sexuality]. It has universal themes that appeal to everyone.BAFTA Snub: An Industry Blind Spot?Despite receiving international recognition, Queer was ignored in all BAFTA categories. This stands in stark contrast to the success of Emilia Prez, another queer-focused film that dominated with 11 nominations. The snub reignited conversations about the industrys uneven support for LGBTQ+ stories, particularly ones that explore themes of intimacy and identity outside mainstream expectations.Craigs limited BAFTA historyhe has only been nominated once, for Casino Royale in 2006adds to the frustration of fans, many of whom argue that the actor delivered one of his most vulnerable performances in Queer.Known for pushing boundaries in queer storytelling, Guadagnino (Call Me by Your Name) has injectedQueerwith his signature style and lush visuals. From steamy club scenes to tense jungle encounters, the film is as atmospheric as it is provocative. But its Daniel Craigs performance that is stealing the spotlightdelivering a portrayal thats raw, unhinged, and unforgettable. Craigs Lee is a man driven to the edge of his own sanity by love, in a quest thats both romantic and deeply flawed.Omar Apollo and Daniel Craig Push BoundariesFor Apollo, embracing 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 said in an interview. Its not something thats new to me.Whats Next for Queer?The BAFTA snub may sting, but fans and critics continue to celebrate Queer as a bold, necessary addition to LGBTQ+ cinema. With its provocative themes and standout performances, the film underscores the importance of visibility and the ongoing fight for recognition in the industry.The BAFTA Film Awards will air on February 16, 2025, on BBC One and iPlayer in the UK and on BritBox in the US and Australia. Whether Queer finds its redemption in other awards shows remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: its unapologetic story wont be forgotten anytime soon.More Stories: Queer Snubbed by BAFTAs: Daniel Craig, Omar Apollos Callout & MoreDavid Lynch, Iconic Director of Twin Peaks and Mulholland Drive, Dies at 78Massachusetts First Nonbinary Elected Official Takes Hiatus Citing Transphobia and Toxic City Council CultureMontana Republicans Pass Bathroom Ban Despite Pleas from Trans LawmakersWinter Party Festival Returns to Miami Beach for 32nd Year, Raising Funds for The National LGBTQ Task ForceThe post Queer Snubbed by BAFTAs: Daniel Craig, Omar Apollos Callout & More appeared first on Gayety.