Call Me by Your Name

Main Plot

"Call Me by Your Name," directed by Luca Guadagnino, is a coming-of-age romance set in the summer of 1983 in northern Italy. The story revolves around Elio Perlman, a 17-year-old who lives with his family in their villa. His father, a professor, invites a 24-year-old graduate student named Oliver to stay with them for six weeks to assist with academic work. As the days pass, Elio and Oliver develop a deep and complex bond that evolves from tentative friendship to a passionate and transformative love affair. The film explores themes of desire, identity, and the fleeting nature of summer romance, set against the backdrop of the idyllic Italian countryside. The narrative delves into the emotional and psychological impact of first love, capturing the intensity and vulnerability of the experience. The film's evocative cinematography and poignant soundtrack further enhance the intimate and nostalgic atmosphere, making it a poignant exploration of love and loss.

Characters

• Timothée Chalamet plays Elio Perlman, a 17-year-old who experiences a transformative summer romance with Oliver, a visiting graduate student, in 1980s Italy.
• Armie Hammer plays Oliver, a charming American scholar who develops a deep romantic relationship with Elio, the protagonist, during a summer in Italy.
• Michael Stuhlbarg plays Mr. Perlman, Elio's father, who provides wisdom and emotional support, especially during a pivotal conversation about love and acceptance.

Ending Explained

In the concluding scenes of "Call Me by Your Name," directed by Luca Guadagnino, Elio (Timothée Chalamet) and Oliver (Armie Hammer) part ways after a passionate summer romance in Northern Italy. Oliver returns to the United States, leaving Elio heartbroken. Later, Elio receives a phone call from Oliver, who reveals that he is engaged to be married. This news devastates Elio, who had hoped their relationship might continue. Elio's father, Mr. Perlman (Michael Stuhlbarg), offers a poignant and supportive conversation, acknowledging the depth of Elio's feelings and encouraging him to cherish the experience rather than suppress it. The film closes with Elio sitting by the fireplace, reflecting on his memories with Oliver. As the camera lingers on Elio's face, he experiences a range of emotions, from sorrow to acceptance, underscored by Sufjan Stevens' song "Visions of Gideon." This final scene encapsulates Elio's journey of first love, heartbreak, and the bittersweet beauty of fleeting moments, leaving a lasting impression of introspection and emotional growth.