One-line Summary:

Call Me by Your Name, directed by Luca Guadagnino, is a poignant coming-of-age film set in 1980s Italy. It follows the summer romance between 17-year-old Elio Perlman and 24-year-old graduate student Oliver. The film explores themes of desire, self-discovery, and the complexities of first love.

Main Cast and Crew:

• Director: Luca Guadagnino
• Writer: James Ivory (screenplay), André Aciman (novel)
• Main Cast: Timothée Chalamet as Elio Perlman, Armie Hammer as Oliver, Michael Stuhlbarg as Mr. Perlman, Amira Casar as Annella Perlman, Esther Garrel as Marzia
• Music Director: Sufjan Stevens
• Director of Photography: Sayombhu Mukdeeprom
• Producers: Peter Spears, Luca Guadagnino, Emilie Georges, Marco Morabito, James Ivory

Plot:

Set in the idyllic Italian countryside, the film introduces us to Elio Perlman, a precocious 17-year-old who spends his summers with his family in their villa. When Oliver, a charming American graduate student, arrives to assist Elio’s father, a professor, the two form an immediate bond. As the summer progresses, their friendship blossoms into a passionate romance.

Elio, initially unsure of his own desires, gradually embraces his attraction to Oliver. Their relationship is marked by stolen glances, secret rendezvous, and intimate conversations. However, their love is also tinged with a sense of melancholy, knowing that their time together is limited.

As the summer draws to a close, Elio and Oliver must confront the reality of their situation. They part ways, promising to stay in touch, but the experience leaves a lasting impact on both of them. Elio is left to grapple with the bittersweet memories of his first love, while Oliver must navigate his own conflicted emotions.

Themes and Motifs:

Call Me by Your Name explores themes of sexual awakening, self-discovery, and the complexities of desire. It delves into the fluidity of sexuality and the power of first love. The film also examines the passage of time and the nostalgia that accompanies cherished memories.

The motif of summer is central to the film, symbolizing a period of growth and transformation. The lush Italian landscape serves as a backdrop for the characters’ emotional journey, reflecting the beauty and intensity of their experiences.

Reception and Legacy:

Upon its release, Call Me by Your Name received critical acclaim for its sensitive portrayal of a same-sex relationship. It was praised for its performances, screenplay, direction, and cinematography. The film was nominated for several awards, including four Academy Awards, and won the Oscar for Best Adapted Screenplay.

Call Me by Your Name has had a lasting impact on cinema, becoming a beloved LGBTQ+ film and a cultural touchstone. It has resonated with audiences worldwide, sparking conversations about love, identity, and acceptance. The film’s success has also elevated the careers of its talented cast and crew.

Recommendation:

Call Me by Your Name is a beautifully crafted film that captures the complexities of first love with sensitivity and authenticity. It is a must-watch for those who appreciate thought-provoking storytelling and exquisite cinematography. The performances by Timothée Chalamet and Armie Hammer are captivating, and the film’s emotional depth lingers long after the credits roll.

Memorable Quote:

“Call me by your name and I’ll call you by mine.” – Elio Perlman