Despite his latest film being censored,Luca Guadagninoremains cautiously optimistic about the power of filmmaking.

I really hope they do believe that the form of the movie brings the possibility of societal collapse.

Because this means that my belief in the power of cinema is true and not delusional.

A sweaty Daniel Craig and Drew Starkey talk at a smokey bar, as Starkey smokes a cigarette, in a still from ‘Queer’.

Daniel Craig and Drew Starkey in ‘Queer’ (2024).Yannis Drakoulidis/A24/Courtesy Everett Collection

Guadagnino added, Its an obtusecensorshipparticularly in this world where you’re free to download the movie.

The statement continued, We believe this ban is an intervention that restricts art and freedom of expression…

This ban takes not just one movie away but also the meaning and purpose of the entire festival.

Daniel Craig and Drew Starkey in Queer movie

Luca Guadagnino attends Deadline Contenders Film: Los Angeles on Nov. 16, 2024 in Los Angeles, California.