Luca Guadagnino’s “Call me by your name” is a romantic drama that shows the beauty of being young and falling in love for the first time. A charming film, with striking performances and cinematography that highlights the beauty of Italy. 

 

Against the backdrop of a hot summer, 17-year old Elio Perlman, played by Timothee Chalamet, pursues a romantic relationship with a 24-year old student graduate who has come to stay with his academic father for the holidays.

 

Over the course of his stay, Oliver, played by Armie Hammer grows closer with Elio, until their intimate friendship leads to a serious romance. Despite being set in the 1980’s, the struggle of being homosexual at that time is not the focus of the film. Rather, the story revolves around the glory of finding companionship within another person. 

 

Sufjan Steven’s whimsical song “Mystery of love” is the perfect accompaniment to scenic shots of the couple roaming the countryside. The colour grade of the film remains in soft pastel shades, exemplifying the orange and blue of the surroundings and making the film feel like lost memories of a summer romance. 

 

However, the film succeeds in being sensual, without being sexy or vulgar. Scenes of a sexual nature are concealed by darkness or suggestion. Even a particularly odd scene in which Chalamet has to act out something odd with a peach is carried out artistically.

 

Given the inappropriate age gap the relationship portrays, Guadagnino was wise to do so, as adapting this from the book could be misinterpreted. The dynamic between Elio and Oliver seems more focused on their intellect and less on sex, as they spend their time together reading and discussing history. 

 

Overall, “Call me by your name” is a wonderful adaptation, and delivered with intensity by Chalamet conveys the pain and joy of falling in love. Guadagnino’s film tells the timeless tale of being young and in love, and beautifully presents it on screen.