Luca Guadagnino, the director who captivated us with “Call Me by Your Name”, surprises us again with “Queer”, a film that explores themes of identity, desire and addiction in a fascinating historical and cultural context. And to accompany this sensory odyssey, Guadagnino has enlisted the collaboration of two masters of music: Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross of Nine Inch Nails.
The film, starring Daniel Craig as the enigmatic writer William Lee and Drew Starkey as the seductive Eugene Allerton, takes viewers on a psychedelic journey through 1940s Latin America. This journey is further enriched by an atmospheric score by the Oscar-winning duo of Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross, whose collaboration with Guadagnino on “Challengers” proved fruitful.
A perfect marriage of image and sound
The soundtrack of “Queer” is more than a simple accompaniment to the images; it is another character in the story. Reznor and Ross have created a score that intertwines organically with the narrative, immersing the viewer in a sonic universe that reflects the emotional complexity of the characters and the psychedelic atmosphere of the film.
A journey through music
The musical selection in “Queer” is as diverse as the film itself. From the industrial and atmospheric sounds of Nine Inch Nails, which add a layer of darkness and mystery, to classical melodies and Latin jazz that evoke the era in which the story takes place, the soundtrack transports us to different places and moods.
A soundtrack that speaks about us
In addition to being a work of art in itself, the soundtrack of “Queer” functions as a mirror that reflects our own experience of the world. The songs chosen, both originals and covers, speak to us of love, loss, desire and the search for identity, universal themes that resonate in each of us.
The importance of music in film
“Queer” is a clear example of how music can elevate a film to new heights. The soundtrack not only accompanies the images, but complements and enriches them, creating a more complete and memorable cinematic experience.
Complete list of songs from the “Queer” soundtrack:
- All Apologies (performed by Sinéad O’Connor): A soulful and melancholy version of the Nirvana classic that sets an introspective tone right from the start.
- Sin Ti ( performed by Trio Los Panchos): A classic bolero that evokes the passion and romanticism of the era.
- Mi Corazon (performed by Rafael Mendez and His Orchestra): An instrumental piece that accompanies moments of reflection and introspection.
- Muchos Besos (performed by Martin and Malena): A sensual tango that adds a touch of eroticism to the film.
- Come as You Are (performed by Nirvana): A nod to alternative rock that adds energy and vitality to the film.
- Darktown Strutters Ball (played by Benny Goodman): A swing classic that evokes the joy and vitality of a bygone era.
- La Malaguena: A flamenco instrumental piece that adds a touch of exoticism to the soundtrack.
- Para Que Mentir ( performed by Lydia Mendoza): A ranchera that reflects the Latin culture and musical diversity of the film.
- Begin the Beguine (performed by The Bill Danzeisen Big Band Orchestra): An elegant waltz that accompanies moments of romance and nostalgia.
- Yes Sir, That’s My Baby (performed by Eddie Cantor): A jazz classic that adds a touch of humor and lightness.
- Marigold (performed by Nirvana): Another Nirvana song that reinforces the presence of alternative rock in the soundtrack.
- 17 Days (Piano & A Microphone 1983 Version) (performed by Prince): An intimate ballad by Prince that brings a touch of melancholy.
- Y Andale (performed by Capitan Chinaco Y Sus Guerrilleros, Polvorita and Trio Las Provincianas): A traditional Mexican song that adds color and flavor to the soundtrack.
- Roses of Picardy (performed by Frankie Laine): A romantic ballad evoking wartime nostalgia.
- Perdido (performed by Charlie Parker, Dizzy Gillespie, Bud Powell, Max Roach and Charles Mingus): A bebop jazz classic that shows the influence of jazz on the soundtrack.
- Sui Ghiacciai (performed by Verdena): An Italian rock song that adds a contemporary touch to the soundtrack.
- Do I Worry? (performed by The Ink Spots): A doo-wop classic that adds a touch of nostalgia and melancholy.
- Leave Me Alone (performed by New Order): A new wave classic that brings a touch of energy and rebelliousness.
- Riders In The Sky (A Cowboy Legend) (performed by Vaughn Monroe and His Orchestra): A country song that evokes the adventurous spirit of the protagonists.
- Musicology (performed by Prince): A catchy funk that adds a touch of energy and fun.
- Vaster Than Empires (performed by Caetano Veloso, Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross): An original song with lyrics inspired by the writings of William S. Burroughs, which summarizes the essence of the film.
