Call Me By Your Name is a cinematic masterpiece directed by Luca Guadagnino that beautifully captures the essence of first love and the bittersweet nature of desire. Set in the idyllic landscapes of Italy during the summer of 1983, the film tells the story of Elio, a young man who embarks on a passionate romance with Oliver, a visiting scholar. The film’s poignant storytelling, stunning cinematography, and powerful performances have left audiences yearning for more stories that explore similar themes of love, longing, and self-discovery. If you adored Call Me By Your Name, here are 22 Movies Like Call Me By Your Name that you simply must watch. Each of these films presents unique narratives filled with love and emotion, perfect for anyone seeking to explore the intricacies of human relationships.
1. Moonlight (2016)
Moonlight is a groundbreaking coming-of-age film that intricately explores the life of Chiron, a young Black man grappling with his identity and sexuality. The film unfolds in three parts, depicting Chiron’s childhood, adolescence, and adulthood as he navigates his complicated relationship with his mother and his love for his childhood friend, Kevin. The intimate storytelling and evocative visuals create a powerful narrative about love, vulnerability, and the quest for self-acceptance. With its deep emotional resonance, Moonlight aligns beautifully with the themes of longing and personal discovery found in Call Me By Your Name, making it a must-watch for fans of poignant love stories.
2. Brokeback Mountain (2005)
Directed by Ang Lee, Brokeback Mountain tells the heart-wrenching tale of two cowboys, Ennis and Jack, who develop a deep bond while herding sheep in the isolated mountains of Wyoming. Their relationship endures over the years, fraught with societal expectations and personal struggles. The film poignantly addresses themes of love, loss, and the sacrifices made for societal acceptance. With powerful performances from Heath Ledger and Jake Gyllenhaal, Brokeback Mountain echoes the emotional depth of Call Me By Your Name, making it an essential watch for anyone exploring the complexities of love and identity.
3. Carol (2015)
Carol is a beautifully crafted film set in the 1950s, telling the story of Therese, a young aspiring photographer, and Carol, an older woman going through a difficult divorce. Their romance unfolds amidst the societal constraints of the era, highlighting the risks they take for love. The film’s lush cinematography, paired with outstanding performances from Cate Blanchett and Rooney Mara, creates a captivating atmosphere that resonates with the themes of desire and personal freedom. Like Call Me By Your Name, Carol explores the beauty and challenges of love in a repressive context, making it a deeply impactful film.
4. The Handmaiden (2016)
This South Korean film, directed by Park Chan-wook, is a mesmerizing blend of romance, intrigue, and betrayal. Set during the Japanese occupation of Korea, the story follows a con man who hires a handmaiden to help him seduce a wealthy heiress. As the plot twists unfold, the emotional connections deepen, revealing complex relationships and hidden desires. The film’s lush visuals and intricate storytelling create a captivating experience that mirrors the passionate romance of Call Me By Your Name. With its themes of love, deception, and liberation, The Handmaiden is a compelling exploration of desire and identity.
5. God’s Own Country (2017)
God’s Own Country follows Johnny, a young farmer in rural England dealing with isolation and personal demons. When a Romanian migrant worker arrives to help on the farm, their relationship blossoms into a passionate love affair. The film’s stunning cinematography and raw performances showcase the emotional struggles and triumphs of love, paralleling the exploration of self-discovery in Call Me By Your Name. With its authentic portrayal of rural life and the transformative power of love, God’s Own Country offers a beautiful narrative about connection and identity.
6. A Single Man (2009)
Directed by Tom Ford, A Single Man tells the story of George, a college professor in 1962 who is grieving the loss of his longtime partner. As he navigates a day in his life, he encounters various people that compel him to reflect on his past and reconsider his future. The film’s exquisite cinematography and emotional depth make it a powerful exploration of love and loss. The themes of longing and the desire for connection in A Single Man resonate strongly with the poignant exploration of identity and love found in Call Me By Your Name.
7. Weekend (2011)
Weekend is an intimate portrayal of a brief encounter between two men, Russell and Glen, who meet at a bar and spend a transformative weekend together. The film explores their deepening connection as they confront their fears about love and vulnerability. With its authentic dialogue and relatable characters, Weekend captures the complexities of human connection and desire. This heartfelt narrative resonates with the themes of fleeting romance and self-discovery that define Call Me By Your Name, making it a touching addition to this list.
8. The Way He Looks (2014)
This Brazilian film follows Leonardo, a blind teenager seeking independence and love. When a new student, Gabriel, arrives at his school, Leonardo begins to develop feelings for him. The film delicately navigates themes of adolescence, identity, and the beauty of first love. Its heartfelt storytelling and relatable characters create an emotional experience reminiscent of Call Me By Your Name. The Way He Looks captures the innocence and excitement of young love, making it a charming addition to any romantic film collection.
9. Pride (2014)
Based on a true story, Pride depicts the alliance between a group of LGBTQ+ activists and striking miners during the 1984 strike in Wales. The film highlights the importance of community, solidarity, and love in the face of adversity. With its blend of humor and heartfelt moments, Pride celebrates acceptance and the power of standing up for one another. The friendships and relationships that develop throughout the film echo the themes of connection and understanding found in Call Me By Your Name, making it a joyful celebration of love and activism.
10. Maurice (1987)
Based on E.M. Forster’s novel, Maurice follows the life of Maurice Hall as he navigates his sexuality in early 20th-century England. The film portrays Maurice’s struggles with societal expectations and his pursuit of love, focusing on his relationships with Clive and later with Alec. Its beautiful cinematography and poignant storytelling capture the essence of longing and the search for acceptance. Like Call Me By Your Name, Maurice explores the complexities of love and the impact of societal norms on personal happiness, making it a profound addition to this list.
11. The Dreamers (2003)
Set against the backdrop of the Paris student riots in 1968, The Dreamers follows an American student who befriends a French brother and sister. As their relationship deepens, they navigate a world of passion, politics, and sexual exploration. The film is notable for its raw intimacy and exploration of youthful exuberance and desire. Its themes of love, identity, and the intertwining of personal and political struggles resonate with the emotional depth found in Call Me By Your Name, making it a captivating choice for fans of romantic cinema.
These 11 Heartfelt Movies Like Call Me By Your Name invite viewers to explore the intricate nuances of love, identity, and human connection. Each film offers a unique perspective on the beauty and complexities of relationships, showcasing the various ways love can manifest in our lives. From the tender narratives of Moonlight and Brokeback Mountain to the joyous exploration of first love in The Way He Looks, these films resonate deeply with the themes of desire and self-discovery found in Call Me By Your Name. Whether you’re in the mood for romance, heartbreak, or personal growth, this list has something for everyone. For more cinematic inspiration, be sure to check out Top 5 LA Crime Thriller Movies Like Point Blank | Similar-List, where you’ll discover even more thrilling narratives to indulge in.