“Call Me by Your Name,” directed by Luca Guadagnino, is a cinematic masterpiece that seamlessly blends visuals, music, storytelling, and Italian culture to create a deeply moving and emotional experience. Set in 1980s Italy, the film tells the story of a passionate summer romance between Elio Perlman, a 17-year-old boy, and Oliver, a 24-year-old graduate student who is working as an intern for Elio’s father, an archaeology professor who specializes in Greco-Roman culture.
The art of cinematography is seen throughout almost every second of Call Me by Your Name. Shot by cinematographer Sayombhu Mukdeeprom, the film transports the audience to not only the sun-soaked landscapes of 1980s Northern Italy, but also the emotional and sensual world of the characters throughout. One of the most striking elements of the cinematography is the film’s play on color and light. The scenes are covered in golden, warm tones that resemble the days of summer in the Italian countryside. While developing a sense of intimacy, it draws the viewer into the budding romance of the film.
The visual style of the film could also be described as having fluid camera movements and long takes. Specifically, in the scene where Oliver walks down the stairs, he appears to glide gracefully, capturing the beauty of every detail, which is art in itself. This is an immersion tactic that draws the viewer in. Additionally, the film has a focus on framing the scenes in such a way that it hyper focuses on a certain environment or event. Whether it’s Elio and Oliver riding their bikes through the countryside or lounging by the pool, each shot creates and develops a sense of balance and harmony.
There is one particular scene that has always evoked something in viewers, just based on the way it was filmed. The scene where Elio and Oliver discover an ancient statue’s arm while on a trip to Bergamo is a piece of cinematic art and holds layers of powerful symbolism. The shot is about the connection between Elio and Oliver, two young men who are drawn to each other but still aren’t sure of the situation. The ancient arm, with its weathered surface and timeless beauty represents the idea that desire and love could travel across time. Just as the statue’s arm has survived for centuries, so too will Elio and Oliver’s love, despite the obstacles they face. In addition to the symbolism, the environment, the lush Italian countryside, adds to the surrealness of their situation with its beauty. The use of close-ups and tight framing during the scene helps to emphasize the intimacy between Elio and Oliver, while also allowing the audience to see the emotions playing out on their faces. The camera lingers on their hands as they hold the ancient arm, capturing every small movement and gesture. The music also plays a crucial role in setting the tone for the scene. The haunting melody of Sufjan Stevens’ “Mystery of Love” underscores the bittersweet nature of Elio and Oliver’s relationship, while also adding to the sense of nostalgia and longing. Through its use of symbolism, cinematography, and music, the scene captures the beauty of love in all forms.
The other scene that will be spotlighted is the ending. I will have to admit something on a personal level. When I first watched the ending to Call Me by Your Name, I couldn’t help it lingered in my mind for days after. It is one of the most emotional cinematic art moments I have experienced. Elio gets a phone call as we see a change in the season, leaves falling from the tree and the landscape turning from green to gold. He receives the news from Oliver that he is engaged to a woman, completely disregarding the summer they experienced. As the film draws to a close and the credits begin to role, we see Elio head towards his house’s fireplace and sitting, lost in his thoughts and tears in his eyes. As he stares aimlessly into the fire, there is a range of emotions across his face, including sadness and longing. The camera holds on Elio’s face for an agonizingly long time, allowing the audience to feel the full weight of his emotions. The film’s ending is made even more powerful by the use of Sufjan Stevens’ beautiful song, “Visions of Gideon.” As the song plays, we see Elio sitting by the fireplace, tears streaming down his face, as he comes to terms with the end of his romance with Oliver. The lyrics of the song capture the bittersweetness of Elio’s emotions, as he grapples with the pain of letting go and the beauty of what he has experienced. This scene is a reminder that even though love may be fleeting, the memories we create together can last a lifetime. As Elio sits by the fireplace, lost in his thoughts, we are reminded of the beauty and the pain of love, and the ways in which it shapes and defines us. It is a conclusion that lingers long after the credits roll, leaving a lasting impression on the audience and reminding us of the power of cinema to move and inspire us.
“Call Me by Your Name” is more than just a love story; it’s a celebration of Italian culture, language, and way of life. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Italian countryside, the film immerses the audience in the sights, sounds, and flavors of Italy, capturing the beauty and richness of the country’s culture. Throughout the film, we hear the characters speaking Italian, both in casual conversation and in more intimate moments. The language itself becomes a character in the story, adding to the film’s sense of authenticity and immersion in Italian culture. Director Luca Guadagnino intentionally chose to have the characters speak Italian, even though much of the dialogue is in English, to create a more authentic and immersive experience for the audience. The use of Italian language adds a layer of authenticity to the film, allowing the audience to feel as though they are truly experiencing the world of the characters.
In addition to its use of language, “Call Me by Your Name” also celebrates Italian culture through its portrayal of food, music, and art. The film is filled with scenes of the characters enjoying delicious Italian meals, prepared with love and care by Elio’s mother, Annella. These meals are not just a source of nourishment; they are a celebration of life, family, and togetherness. The film also features scenes of the characters swimming in the crystal-clear waters of the Italian countryside, exploring the lush gardens and picturesque villages that dot the landscape, and immersing themselves in the rich history and culture of the region.
In conclusion, Call Me by Your Name is a cinematic artwork that not only tells a beautiful and love story but also celebrates the richness of Italian culture, language, and way of life. Through its stunning cinematography, moving storytelling, and evocative use of music, the film transports the audience to the sun-soaked landscapes of 1980s Northern Italy, immersing them in the emotional and sensual world of the characters. The film’s ending, in particular, lingers in the mind long after the credits roll, leaving a lasting impression on the audience and reminding us of the power of cinema.
