Luca Guadagnino Says Istanbul Banning ‘Queer’ Is ‘Helping the Film Become More Cult’

Luca Guadagnino is speaking out on how “Queer” bans are actually “helping the movie to become more cult.”

The auteur told Entertainment Weekly that the feature, which stars Daniel Craig and Drew Starkey as a gay couple in 1940s Mexico, will not be deterred by Middle Eastern bans of screenings. “Queer” was set as the opening night feature for the annual Mubi Fest Istanbul; however, after the Kadıköy District Governor’s Office deemed the film a “threat to public peace,” Mubi canceled the entire festival.

Guadagnino wondered to EW if “the government of Turkey or whoever on the board decided this had actually seen the movie or [if] they’re only making that decision based on what they’ve read about the movie.” 

He added, “Either way, they’re helping the movie to become more cult than less. They’re shooting on their feet, these people.”

Lead star Craig also explained how the sex scenes in “Queer” are not at all the point of the film itself.

“I feel like the physical act is the least interesting thing. We’re all grown ups. This is what people do,” he said. “But the only thing that’s interesting, and what I think hopefully works about the scenes is the emotional journey of each character. That’s what we wanted to get across. I think that’s why they work.”

A representative for Mubi wrote in a statement shared with IndieWire that the ban in Turkey was issued only hours before the screening was set to begin.

“The decision states that the film is prohibited on the grounds that it contains provocative content that could endanger public peace, with the ban being imposed for security reasons,” the statement reads. “We believe this ban is a direct restriction on art and freedom of expression. Festivals are spaces that celebrate art, cultural diversity, and community, bringing people together. This ban not only targets a single film but also undermines the very essence and purpose of the festival. […] We will continue to advocate for the protection of freedom of expression and artistic integrity.”

“Queer” will premiere in U.S. theaters November 27. Guadagnino is confirmed to be directing an adaptation of “American Psycho” next, among his robust project slate.