Review: ‘Call Me by Your Name’ a Mesmerizing Coming-of-Age and Romance Film, Buffered by Chalamet and Hammer

Timotheé Chalamet and Armie Hammer star in Luca Guadagnino’s moving adaptation of Andre Aciman’s bestselling novel. Dazzling performances and ravishing visuals propel “Call Me by Your Name” into its place as one of 2017’s best films. 

Timotheé Chalamet stars as Elio, an artistic 17-year-old who spends his summer in the picturesque landscapes of Northern Italy, transcribing music and hanging out with his friends. Being on the cusp of adulthood, Elio also spends his days flirting with his friend Marzia (Esther Garrel) and experiencing love for the first time. His mundane routine is interrupted when American student Oliver (played by Armie Hammer) arrives to work with Elio’s father (“A Serious Man” star Michael Stuhlbarg). As the summer progresses, Elio and Oliver form a fervent love; they develop a passionate bond that will forever impact their lives. 

A Mixture of Musical Genres Enhanced by Style

American singer/songwriter Sufjan Stevens composed two original songs (“Mystery of Love” and “Visions of Gideon”) and provides a remix of “Futile Devices,” his own song. Stevens’ music accompanies a variety of songs ranging from classical music pieces to ’80s pop songs. The mix of musical genres effortlessly compliments Sayombhu Mukdeeprom’s cinematography that echoes the visuals of Joe Wright’s 2007 drama “Atonement.” Luca Guadagnino miraculously brings together first-class filmmaking to create a delicate, yet heart-breaking story with a poetic story at its centre. 

Timotheé Chalamet and Armie Hammer bring their ‘A’ games to this film; they both provide Oscar-worthy performances fueled by intense chemistry between them. Chalamet’s performance encompasses Elio’s intelligence and artistic flair, while Hammer brings Oliver’s suave and breezy persona to the screen.

Chalamet and Hammer give career-defining performances…”

Michael Stuhlbarg gives a wonderful performance as does Amira Casar and Esther Garrel. Stuhlbarg’s standout moment comes when he gives a touching monologue to Elio after Oliver’s departure and ‘to make yourself feel nothing so as to not feel anything’ is a waste. However, Chalamet proves himself as a talented performer during the final scene as the credits roll beside him. His performance is a mix of discovering yourself and being a teenager, while also discovering love and how it feels. Both of which tie into some of “Call Me by Your Name’s” complex themes of heartbreak, identity, and coming-of-age. 

Chalamet and Hammer at their Best

“Call Me by Your Name” delves into intricate themes like the joy of love; but it also addresses the pain and loneliness that comes when you are without your significant other. The film also quite obviously explores themes of sexuality, and covers Elio’s journey of self-discovery; a good example of this is the infamous peach scene. Most likely unbeknownst to most of the film’s audience is the fact that “Call Me by Your Name” is the final installment in Luca Guadagnino’s “Desire” trilogy. The triad of films is also comprised of 2009’s “I Am Love,” starring Tilda Swinton and 2015’s “A Bigger Splash,” starring Ralph Fiennes, Dakota Johnson, and Matthias Schoenaerts alongside Swinton. 

Luca Guadagnino brings a passionate love story to the screen bound alongside a delicate coming-of-age tale. Brilliant craftmanship and a remarkable screenplay by James Ivory come together to create a mesmerising viewing experience. The film is an elegant adaptation of Aciman’s novel, and it’s uncommon to find a film as delicate as this. Chalamet and Hammer give career-defining performances, never faltering across the 130-minute runtime. 

“Call Me by Your Name” is currently available to stream on Apple TV. 

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