“Call Me By Your Name,” directed by Luca Guadagnino, is a poignant and visually stunning film that delves into the complexities of love, desire, and self-discovery. Set against the idyllic backdrop of 1980s Italy, the movie follows the tender romance between 17-year-old Elio (Timothée Chalamet) and his father’s summer research assistant, Oliver (Armie Hammer). The film is celebrated for its lush cinematography, heartfelt performances, and its delicate portrayal of a transformative summer love. If “Call Me By Your Name” resonated with you, here are five more films that explore similar themes of love, identity, and the bittersweet nature of first love. For more similar movies recommendation, you can click into this post titled 22 Movies Like Call Me By Your Name.
1. Blue Is the Warmest Color (2013)
What it’s about: “Blue Is the Warmest Color” is a French coming-of-age drama directed by Abdellatif Kechiche, based on the graphic novel by Julie Maroh. The film tells the story of Adèle (Adèle Exarchopoulos), a high school student whose life changes when she meets Emma (Léa Seydoux), a blue-haired art student. Their passionate love affair evolves over several years, depicting the highs and lows of their relationship as Adèle navigates her sexual identity, societal expectations, and the complexities of love. The film is known for its raw and intimate portrayal of love and desire, as well as its unflinching exploration of the emotional landscape of its characters.
Why it’s similar: “Blue Is the Warmest Color” shares a deep thematic connection with “Call Me By Your Name” in its exploration of first love, self-discovery, and the profound impact of a transformative relationship. Both films focus on the emotional and physical intensity of a romance that shapes the protagonists’ understanding of themselves and the world around them. Like Elio and Oliver, Adèle and Emma’s relationship is marked by deep passion, longing, and the bittersweet nature of love that is both beautiful and, at times, heartbreaking. The films also share a languid pace and a focus on the subtleties of human interaction, making “Blue Is the Warmest Color” a compelling watch for fans of “Call Me By Your Name.”
2. Carol (2015)
What it’s about: “Carol” is a romantic drama directed by Todd Haynes, based on Patricia Highsmith’s novel “The Price of Salt.” Set in 1950s New York, the film follows the forbidden romance between Therese Belivet (Rooney Mara), a young aspiring photographer, and Carol Aird (Cate Blanchett), an elegant and enigmatic older woman going through a difficult divorce. As their relationship deepens, they must navigate the societal pressures and personal challenges that threaten to keep them apart. The film is praised for its exquisite period detail, lush cinematography, and the powerful performances of its lead actresses.
Why it’s similar: “Carol” shares with “Call Me By Your Name” a focus on the emotional complexities of love, particularly in the face of societal expectations and personal challenges. Both films center on a relationship that defies conventional norms, exploring the depth of feeling and the risks involved in pursuing a forbidden romance. The lush, atmospheric cinematography and the careful attention to the nuances of the characters’ interactions in both films create a rich emotional landscape that draws viewers into the protagonists’ world. Fans of “Call Me By Your Name” will appreciate “Carol” for its exploration of love, desire, and the courage it takes to embrace one’s true self, even in the face of adversity.
3. Moonlight (2016)
What it’s about: “Moonlight” is an Oscar-winning drama directed by Barry Jenkins, based on Tarell Alvin McCraney’s play “In Moonlight Black Boys Look Blue.” The film chronicles the life of Chiron, a young black man growing up in a rough Miami neighborhood, through three defining chapters: his childhood, adolescence, and adulthood. As Chiron grapples with his identity, sexuality, and the challenges of his environment, he forms a deep bond with Kevin, a friend who plays a pivotal role in his journey of self-discovery. “Moonlight” is celebrated for its poetic storytelling, powerful performances, and its exploration of themes such as masculinity, identity, and love.
Why it’s similar: “Moonlight” and “Call Me By Your Name” both explore the complexities of identity, love, and the impact of formative relationships on one’s life. Like Elio, Chiron’s journey is marked by self-discovery and the awakening of his desires, set against a backdrop that shapes his understanding of the world and himself. Both films depict love stories that are tender, intimate, and fraught with challenges, emphasizing the deep emotional connections that define the characters’ lives. The lyrical storytelling, rich character development, and exploration of themes such as vulnerability, desire, and self-acceptance make “Moonlight” a must-watch for those who appreciated the emotional depth and beauty of “Call Me By Your Name.”
4. A Single Man (2009)
What it’s about: “A Single Man” is a drama directed by Tom Ford, based on the novel by Christopher Isherwood. The film is set in 1960s Los Angeles and follows George Falconer (Colin Firth), a British professor struggling with the recent death of his longtime partner, Jim (Matthew Goode). As George navigates his grief, he reflects on the memories of his life with Jim and contemplates his own mortality. Over the course of a single day, George interacts with his close friend Charley (Julianne Moore) and a young student, Kenny (Nicholas Hoult), who offers him a glimmer of hope and connection amidst his despair.
Why it’s similar: “A Single Man” shares with “Call Me By Your Name” a focus on the emotional intensity of love and loss, as well as the process of coming to terms with one’s identity. Both films are visually stunning, with a strong emphasis on mood, atmosphere, and the inner lives of their characters. The exploration of grief, memory, and the lingering impact of a profound love resonates deeply in both films, creating a poignant and introspective viewing experience. Fans of “Call Me By Your Name” will find “A Single Man” to be a beautifully crafted film that delves into the complexities of love, loss, and the search for meaning in life.
5. Brokeback Mountain (2005)
What it’s about: “Brokeback Mountain,” directed by Ang Lee, is a groundbreaking romantic drama that tells the story of Ennis Del Mar (Heath Ledger) and Jack Twist (Jake Gyllenhaal), two cowboys who form a deep and enduring bond while working together on Brokeback Mountain in the 1960s. Over the course of two decades, the men grapple with their feelings for each other, the challenges of leading separate lives, and the societal pressures that keep them apart. The film is a poignant exploration of love, longing, and the sacrifices made in the name of duty and societal expectations.
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Why it’s similar: “Brokeback Mountain” and “Call Me By Your Name” both explore the theme of forbidden love and the powerful, often painful, emotions that accompany it. Both films depict relationships that are deeply affecting and transformative, set against stunning natural backdrops that enhance the emotional impact of the story. The tension between desire and societal norms, the exploration of identity, and the bittersweet nature of love that is both beautiful and fraught with challenges are central to both films. Fans of “Call Me By Your Name” will appreciate “Brokeback Mountain” for its sensitive and nuanced portrayal of love, longing, and the complexities of human connection. If you are a fan of musical and rom-com movies, 12 Beloved Musical Movies like La La Land | Similar-List is a prefect post for you.
