'Call Me By Your Name': a review
Sophie WIlson gives a passionate review of the indie movie, and novel: 'Call Me By Your Name', and convinces readers that it is worth a watch/read.
Chances are, if you’re reading this review, you’ve heard of ‘Call Me By Your Name’ - the infamous indie movie, featuring 2020’s biggest heartthrob: Timothee Chalamet. You may have even seen the film. But films only show us so much, the real gem of this coming of age romance is the novel, written by Andre Aciman.
Set in a small Italian town in 1983, the story follows 17-year-old Elio and his lust for an American exchange student, Oliver. At the start of the novel Elio feels indifference and even resentment towards Oliver’s American manners, such as his casual outlook on life. But as the story begins to develop, Elio realises the depth of his longing for Oliver and perhaps Oliver’s similar feelings. From this moment on, the narrative follows their short romance, from Elio’s bedroom, to the depths of Rome’s alleys, and teaches us the careful lesson of just how fragile we become in the hands of someone else.
On the surface, this book could be written off as a shallow romance, but the themes run much deeper than this. From sexuality, to the impact we have on each other, ‘Call Me By Your Name’ shows us parts of ourselves we would never care to notice ourselves. Elio's confusing and at times irrational approach to his emotions, around Oliver, sheds light on the darkest parts of human desire. We crave others to a point where they feel as though they’re a part of ourselves. This almost philosophical aspect of the novel makes it a read full of impact, that stays with you for a long time. I’ve only read a few books that have made me reflect on my own life like ‘Call Me By Your Name’ has.
However, if you’re not a big reader, don't be disheartened; I’d definitely recommend the film (currently on Netflix). It lacks the emotional intensity of the book, but has breath-taking aesthetics and a brilliant soundtrack. The film captures the 80’s vibe and romantic relationship between Elio and Oliver perfectly.
Sophie Wilson, Year 10
Chances are, if you’re reading this review, you’ve heard of ‘Call Me By Your Name’ - the infamous indie movie, featuring 2020’s biggest heartthrob: Timothee Chalamet. You may have even seen the film. But films only show us so much, the real gem of this coming of age romance is the novel, written by Andre Aciman.
Set in a small Italian town in 1983, the story follows 17-year-old Elio and his lust for an American exchange student, Oliver. At the start of the novel Elio feels indifference and even resentment towards Oliver’s American manners, such as his casual outlook on life. But as the story begins to develop, Elio realises the depth of his longing for Oliver and perhaps Oliver’s similar feelings. From this moment on, the narrative follows their short romance, from Elio’s bedroom, to the depths of Rome’s alleys, and teaches us the careful lesson of just how fragile we become in the hands of someone else.
On the surface, this book could be written off as a shallow romance, but the themes run much deeper than this. From sexuality, to the impact we have on each other, ‘Call Me By Your Name’ shows us parts of ourselves we would never care to notice ourselves. Elio's confusing and at times irrational approach to his emotions, around Oliver, sheds light on the darkest parts of human desire. We crave others to a point where they feel as though they’re a part of ourselves. This almost philosophical aspect of the novel makes it a read full of impact, that stays with you for a long time. I’ve only read a few books that have made me reflect on my own life like ‘Call Me By Your Name’ has.
However, if you’re not a big reader, don't be disheartened; I’d definitely recommend the film (currently on Netflix). It lacks the emotional intensity of the book, but has breath-taking aesthetics and a brilliant soundtrack. The film captures the 80’s vibe and romantic relationship between Elio and Oliver perfectly.
Sophie Wilson, Year 10