Omar Apollo, the acclaimed singer-songwriter, has taken on a new challenge in his artistic journey – acting. In an exclusive conversation with PEOPLE, Apollo opened up about how his experience as a musician has informed his debut acting role in the highly anticipated film Queer.

Channeling Music Videos to Bring Authenticity to Romantic Scenes

Leveraging Musical Expertise for Cinematic Performances

When it came to navigating the intimate scenes with co-star Daniel Craig, Apollo revealed that he drew inspiration from his previous experience in music videos. "Well, I've shot music videos before for my music, so I just tried to emulate that feeling," he shared. The singer-turned-actor found that his familiarity with creating visually captivating performances helped him bring a natural and authentic touch to the romantic moments on screen.

Fostering a Collaborative and Supportive Environment

Apollo also noted that the calm and talented crew on the set of Queer helped alleviate any potential nerves. "There wasn't really much nerves, it was a very calm set," he said. "Everyone is super talented." The artist expressed his trust in the team, which he believes played a crucial role in easing his anxieties during the filming process.

Embracing the Opportunity to Expand His Artistic Horizons

Reflecting on his decision to take on the role, Apollo shared, "It just presented itself to me and I was like, 'Of course.'" The musician, who is known for his soulful and introspective music, saw this as an exciting opportunity to explore a new creative avenue. "I didn't not want to do it," he added, emphasizing his enthusiasm for the project.

Queer: A Groundbreaking Adaptation of a Literary Classic

Queer, the film in which Apollo stars, is an adaptation of the 1985 seminal novella of the same name by William S. Burroughs. The story follows an American expat in 1940s Mexico City who falls in love with a younger man, played by Outer Banks star Drew Starkey. Alongside Apollo and Starkey, the film features a talented ensemble cast, including Daniel Craig, Lesley Manville, Jason Schwartzman, and Drew Droege.

Embracing the Challenges and Rewards of Acting

For Apollo, Queer marks his first foray into the world of acting, and he seems to have embraced the challenge with open arms. "It was great, and it's cool that it's my first role ever," he expressed, highlighting his excitement about this new chapter in his artistic journey.As Omar Apollo continues to captivate audiences with his music, his transition to the silver screen in Queer promises to showcase his versatility and artistic range. With his unique perspective and the support of a talented team, Apollo's debut acting performance is poised to leave a lasting impression on audiences.