Director: Luca Guadagnino
Writer: James Ivory, Luca Guadagnino, Walter Fasano
Starcast: Timothée Chalamet, Armie Hammer, Michael Stuhlbarg
Runtime: 2h 12m
Genre: Romance, Drama, Lgbtq+
Call Me By Your Name Movie Review: Sypnosis
Director Luca Guadagnino’s film ‘Call Me by Your Name’ beautifully combines the spirit of André Aciman’s novel into a visual masterpiece. Set in the idyllic Italian countryside in 1983, the film narrates the story of Elio Perlman, a precocious 17-year-old played by Timothée Chalamet. Elio’s passions lie in music and literature, and he finds solace in his friendship with Marzia(Esther Garrel).
However, Elio’s life takes a surprising turn when Oliver, a 24-year-old American graduate played by Armie Hammer, arrives to help Elio’s father for the summer. Their encounter sparks a transformative journey for both Elio and Oliver, who embark on a romantic exploration of self-discovery amidst the picturesque Italian scenery.
‘Call Me by Your Name,’ set against the backdrop of Italian summer, delivers sophistication and sensuality, making it a true masterpiece of cinema. The film captivates audiences with breathtaking moments. The movie transcends mere erotic drama; each love scene is meticulously choreographed with sensitivity, rawness, and intention.
Call Me By Your Name Movie Review: Script Analysis
The script of ‘Call Me by Your Name’ skillfully avoids the typical tropes of LGBT coming-of-age narratives, prioritizing emotional depth over mere physical attraction. Its most striking aspect is its profound emotional impact. While the erotic elements are tastefully and sensually written, it’s the intricate relationships that truly shine.
Initially, Elio and Oliver’s attraction to each other is noticeable yet veiled under acts of indifference. This sets up a subtle game between them, where they try to figure out if the other person is good enough and if they themselves are up to par. Their interactions are playful yet tinged with vulnerability as they seek to express interest while guarding their hearts.
Both characters vie for attention by showcasing their talents and sexuality. Oliver flaunts his academic prowess to Elio’s father, while Elio expresses his musical abilities on the piano. Their flirtations grow beyond mere words, with each attempting to casually boast about their romantic conquests with other locals, subtly challenging each other’s desirability.
Elio’s journal entries reflect his inner turmoil and doubts about pursuing a relationship with Oliver, illustrating the complexities and anxieties of young love.
As their relationship evolves, the shade of rejection looms large, magnified by Elio’s initial confession of love being met with Oliver’s hesitation. This fear is mirrored in Elio’s parallel romance with Marzia, showing how scary it can be to try and start a romantic relationship.
The narrative also delves into Elio’s journey of self-discovery, grappling with his Jewish heritage and apprehensions about losing himself in a relationship. However, he gradually learns self-acceptance, symbolized by his wearing of a Star of David necklace.
Even though their romance is cut short, they still feel strongly for each other, believing that their love goes beyond time. The end of the film shows how important it is to cherish every moment you have with someone you love.
The movie script handles its themes with subtlety and humor, and the main relationship is sweet and caring with some tension. The bond between Elio and his father is also really touching, especially in one powerful scene. The film captures both the happiness and pain of love and desire in a way that feels real and relatable.
Call Me By Your Name Movie Review: Direction And Music
In his direction of ‘Call Me by Your Name,’ Luca Guadagnino channels the spirit of a contemporary Visconti, inviting audiences into a world of opulence and intellect, where culture knots seamlessly with wealth. Teaming with writer James Ivory, Guadagnino delivers a narrative that feels remarkably authentic and immediate.
Guadagnino’s focus on the organic progression of love is evident throughout the film. Rather than relying solely on dialogue, he artfully employs visual cues, such as the leisurely bike rides between Elio and Oliver, to offer glimpses into the evolving dynamics of their relationship. His attention to detail extends to capturing the physicality of love like the sensuous pleasure of apricots, both in taste and texture. The inclusion of the apricot as a symbol of desire adds a whimsical yet profound layer to the story, showcasing Ivory’s skillful storytelling. Through subtle lighting and shadow play, Guadagnino creates a rich visual tapestry that enhances the emotional depth of the story.
James Ivory’s screenplay masterfully blends moments of intimacy with touches of humor, resulting in a narrative that feels both poignant and relatable.
As for music, the classical compositions by Ryuichi Sakamoto, John Adams, and Valeria Szervanszky lend an air of classic sophistication to the film, setting the tone for each scene with precision. The three Sufjan Stevens songs ‘Mystery of Love,’ ‘Futile Devices,’ and ‘Visions of Gideon’ truly elevate the soundtrack to masterpiece status adding depth and resonance to their experiences.
Overall, Guadagnino’s direction and Ivory’s screenplay work in harmony to create a film that is both visually stunning and emotionally resonant.
Call Me By Your Name Movie Review: Star Performance
Timothée Chalamet
Timothée Chalamet delivers a mesmerizing performance as Elio, evoking a whirlwind of emotions that compel viewers to experience love, heartache, and self-discovery with unapologetic intensity. Through his portrayal, Chalamet masterfully conveys Elio’s complex character, effortlessly balancing aloofness with vulnerability, and infusing the role with rawness and depth.
Armie Hammer
Armie Hammer delivers a standout performance as Oliver, skillfully bringing depth to a character initially idealized by Elio in the book. In the film, Oliver emerges as endearing, complex, and genuinely caring. Hammer adeptly navigates Oliver’s outward confidence and inner vulnerability, portraying him as more than just a typical Hollywood heartthrob, but a character of genuine depth and complexity.
Call Me By Your Name Movie Review: Final Words
‘Call Me by Your Name’ is a captivating journey through first love, blending desire and selflessness with breathtaking beauty. While its portrayal of intimacy is undeniably powerful, ‘Call Me by Your Name’ exceeds mere physicality. What sets this film apart is its universal resonance; it embraces the essence of first love without limiting itself to labels of sexuality. Instead, it celebrates the joy of embracing love wherever it may be found, reminding us to cherish each moment spent with those who capture our hearts. In its dreamy atmosphere, the film is a piece of art.
Call Me By Your Name Movie Trailer
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