Queer

William Lee, an American expatriate, meets a young Jewish man in Mexico City during the 1950s. They part ways without forming a meaningful connection, highlighting Lee's sense of isolation in a foreign land.

Lee spends his days seeking casual flings with local men, despite some feeling uncomfortable with his advances. His struggles with heroin addiction become evident, revealing his reasons for relocating from the U.S.

At a gay bar called Ships Ahoy, Lee hangs out with friends, including Joe Guidry. It is here that he meets a man named Omar Apollo and engages in a casual encounter, further showcasing his lifestyle choices.

Lee notices Eugene Allerton in a bar but initially fails to get his attention. After several days, they start to spend time together, although Allerton’s disinterest in Lee's advances remains apparent.

After several outings, Lee succeeds in seducing Allerton following a dinner date. Their first intimate encounter, however, is complicated by Allerton's inexperience and his mixed feelings about his identity.

In an attempt to impress Allerton at a party, Lee gets excessively drunk, leading to an embarrassing scene in front of friends. This incident highlights the strain in their growing relationship and Lee's ongoing struggles.

While unconscious from drinking, Lee experiences haunting dreams that involve a disembodied woman questioning his identity. This moment signifies Lee's internal conflicts about his sexuality and existence.

Lee convinces Allerton to travel with him to South America in search of yagé, a hallucinogenic plant. Despite initial resistance, Allerton agrees, setting the stage for a transformative journey.

Once in South America, Lee suffers severe withdrawal symptoms, making their trip challenging. Allerton takes on the role of caretaker, struggling to manage both Lee's health and their evolving relationship.

Lee and Allerton finally locate Dr. Cotter, who possesses yagé. Upon their arrival, they are initially met with suspicion, but after mutual introductions, they are welcomed into her home.

Cotter brews yagé for herself, Lee, and Allerton, leading to a night of intense hallucinations and telepathic communication. This experience deepens their bond and leads to a shared transformative moment.

As the effects of yagé take hold, Lee and Allerton feel as though their bodies are merging, symbolizing a profound connection. However, the next day, they find themselves lost in the jungle, highlighting the fragility of their bond.

After being apart for two years, Lee returns to Ships Ahoy in Mexico City. There, he learns that Allerton has returned to South America in search of him, which stirs nostalgia and uncertainty in Lee.

That night, Lee dreams of a scenario where he shoots Allerton in a bizarre game. This surreal dream leaves him grappling with unresolved feelings and the fear of loss.

In the epilogue, an elderly Lee reflects on his life alone, hearing Allerton's voice. As he imagines their time together, Lee ultimately succumbs to loneliness, concluding his journey with a haunting sense of loss.