Call Me by Your Name

"Call Me By Your Name," a 2017 romantic coming-of-age drama directed by Luca Guadagnino, tells the story of Elio Perlman, a 17-year-old boy, and Oliver, his father's assistant, played by Timothée Chalamet and Armie Hammer respectively. The film, based on André Aciman's 2007 novel, is set in northern Italy in 1983 and explores the blossoming romance between Elio and Oliver. Elio, living with his parents in the Italian countryside, meets Oliver, who joins the family for the summer of 1983. As they spend time together, sharing their interests, a romantic connection develops.

The film captures the essence of first love, showcasing the dynamic between Elio and Oliver as their relationship deepens. The setting of the 1980s, a time when same-sex relationships were more taboo, adds a layer of complexity to their story. The film's sensual atmosphere, reminiscent of the 1980s, is enhanced by the carefully chosen score. Guadagnino personally selected the music, aiming for an emotional, yet not overly heavy, feel. The music connects to Elio, a young pianist who enjoys adapting pieces, reflecting his growing connection to Oliver. The stunning cinematography and score contribute to the summery ambiance that permeates the film. The costumes and production design perfectly capture the aesthetic of the 1980s.

Chalamet brings Elio to life with authenticity, portraying a character experiencing new emotions that he struggles to articulate. Chalamet's facial expressions and body language make Elio relatable and easy to understand. The rare close-ups of Elio reveal a depth of emotion, captivating the viewer. The chemistry between Chalamet and Hammer is palpable, conveying the characters' emotions with sincerity. Their physical chemistry adds to the film's overall sensual feel.

While the film's atmosphere is nearly perfect, the representation of physical intimacy is somewhat lacking. The romantic relationship between the two main characters does not include explicit love scenes, remaining discreet. This omission, in the context of today's more open perspective on same-sex relationships, feels somewhat odd, especially considering the film's overall excellence. Guadagnino, in an interview with the Hollywood Reporter, explained that "in order for queer stories to be marketable, they must be presented in a way that will not alienate straight audiences." He emphasized that the film's tone and direction focused on the emotional journey of first love rather than a purely queer narrative. This approach, aimed at reaching a wider audience beyond the LGBTQ community, feels somewhat restrained in later parts of the film.

"Call Me By Your Name" is a nearly perfect romantic drama, capturing the emotions of its two main characters with great sensitivity. However, to fully do justice to the story, the film could have presented a more honest and unfiltered narrative, one that did not feel limited by the need to appease mainstream audiences.