Introduction: If you were deeply moved by Call Me by Your Name, with its tender exploration of young love, identity, and emotional transformation, you’re likely seeking more films that capture similar themes of romance, self-discovery, and intimate connection. Call Me by Your Name left a lasting impact with its nostalgic portrayal of an unforgettable summer romance between Elio and Oliver in the Italian countryside. If you’re looking for more films with the same evocative storytelling, emotional depth, and compelling relationships, this list of movies like Call Me by Your Name will undoubtedly captivate you. These films explore the complexity of love, the beauty of coming-of-age experiences, and the emotional turmoil that comes with navigating one’s identity in the face of a transformative relationship.
1. Brokeback Mountain (2005)
Brokeback Mountain, directed by Ang Lee, is a heart-wrenching exploration of a forbidden romance between two men, Ennis and Jack, who form a passionate bond while working as cowboys on Brokeback Mountain. Much like movies like Call Me by Your Name, it delves into the complexities of love, identity, and the societal pressures that force the characters to live their lives in secrecy. The film’s slow-burn romance and emotional depth provide a similar feeling of nostalgia and heartache. Brokeback Mountain touches on themes of regret, longing, and the power of a connection that transcends time and space. The performances from Heath Ledger and Jake Gyllenhaal are deeply moving, leaving a lasting impression.
2. Moonlight (2016)
Moonlight is a poignant coming-of-age drama that tells the story of Chiron, a young man growing up in a rough neighborhood in Miami, and his struggle with his identity, sexuality, and the complexities of love. Like movies like Call Me by Your Name, Moonlight explores themes of self-discovery and the struggles that come with embracing one’s true self, especially in a world that doesn’t always understand or accept that identity. The film’s powerful performances and sensitive treatment of love in its many forms make it a deeply emotional and unforgettable cinematic experience.
3. The Way He Looks (2014)
This Brazilian film follows Leonardo, a blind teenager who is trying to gain independence while navigating his feelings for Gabriel, a new student who challenges his views on life and love. Much like movies like Call Me by Your Name, The Way He Looks offers a touching portrayal of young love, self-acceptance, and personal growth. The film beautifully captures the awkwardness, joy, and emotional turbulence of first love. As Leonardo learns to accept his own identity and feelings, viewers are taken on an emotional journey that’s both tender and transformative.
4. Call Me by Your Name (2017)
If you’re already familiar with Call Me by Your Name, you know the story of Elio and Oliver, two individuals who form a profound connection during a summer in Italy. Their love story, filled with yearning and heartbreak, is one of the most poignant portrayals of first love in modern cinema. Like many movies like Call Me by Your Name, it touches on themes of passion, nostalgia, and identity. The setting, cinematography, and performances by Timothée Chalamet and Armie Hammer elevate this love story into an unforgettable experience.
5. The Handmaiden (2016)
Park Chan-wook’s The Handmaiden is a visually stunning and gripping tale of love, betrayal, and deception set in 1930s Korea. The film revolves around the complex relationship between a wealthy heiress and her maid, who are drawn into a forbidden love affair. Like movies like Call Me by Your Name, The Handmaiden explores themes of sexual identity, societal constraints, and emotional intimacy, all while keeping viewers on the edge of their seats with its twists and turns. The film is a masterful combination of romance, thriller, and psychological drama.
6. Love, Simon (2018)
Love, Simon tells the heartwarming story of Simon Spier, a high school student who struggles with coming out as gay while also falling in love with an anonymous classmate. Like movies like Call Me by Your Name, Love, Simon deals with the emotional journey of discovering one’s identity and embracing love, but with a lighter, more upbeat tone. The film’s exploration of family, friendship, and romance makes it a modern, feel-good take on coming-of-age love stories. With its charming lead performances and heartfelt narrative, Love, Simon offers a perfect blend of humor and heart.
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7. A Single Man (2009)
Directed by Tom Ford, A Single Man explores the life of George, a middle-aged English professor mourning the death of his partner, Jim. The film delicately portrays George’s emotional journey as he contemplates his past and future. Like movies like Call Me by Your Name, A Single Man examines themes of love, loss, and the deep yearning for connection. Colin Firth’s performance is nothing short of remarkable, capturing the quiet pain and beauty of a life lived in the shadow of lost love. The film’s visual style and emotional depth make it a must-watch for those drawn to introspective and tender love stories.
8. God’s Own Country (2017)
God’s Own Country follows Johnny, a young farmer in Yorkshire, whose life changes when he develops a complicated relationship with Gheorghe, a Romanian migrant worker. The film explores themes of isolation, love, and self-discovery in a rural setting, much like movies like Call Me by Your Name. The evolving relationship between Johnny and Gheorghe is both tender and raw, and the film beautifully captures the complexities of love in a harsh environment. The cinematography, performances, and sensitive portrayal of emotional intimacy make this a deeply moving film.
9. Beach Rats (2017)
In Beach Rats, the protagonist, Frankie, is a confused young man grappling with his identity while navigating a relationship with a woman and his growing attraction to other men. Much like movies like Call Me by Your Name, the film examines the internal conflict of reconciling one’s identity with external pressures and expectations. The film’s portrayal of the complexities of desire, secrecy, and coming-of-age challenges is both intimate and compelling, drawing viewers into Frankie’s emotional turmoil as he tries to find his place in the world.
10. 20th Century Women (2016)
Set in the 1970s, 20th Century Women is a deeply reflective film that explores the lives of three women—Dorothea, Abbie, and Julie—who help guide a teenage boy named Jamie through adolescence. The film beautifully explores themes of love, family, and personal growth, much like movies like Call Me by Your Name. The dynamic between Jamie and the women in his life creates a rich, emotional narrative about learning from those who shape us, and the film’s poignant moments highlight the complexities of relationships and self-discovery.
11. I Am Love (2009)
I Am Love follows Emma, a Russian woman living in Italy, who falls in love with her son’s best friend, leading to a passionate and transformative affair. The film, like movies like Call Me by Your Name, explores themes of forbidden love, identity, and emotional awakening. Tilda Swinton’s commanding performance and the film’s stunning visuals elevate it into a poignant exploration of the complexities of desire and personal freedom. I Am Love is a deeply emotional film that captures the essence of love’s ability to change one’s life in unexpected ways.
12. Summer Storm (2004)
Summer Storm is a German coming-of-age drama about a group of teenagers attending a rowing camp. The film explores the evolving relationship between two friends, Tobi and Achim, as Tobi grapples with his emerging feelings for Achim. Like movies like Call Me by Your Name, Summer Storm deals with themes of self-acceptance, love, and friendship, portraying the internal conflicts of discovering one’s sexual identity in a complicated and often judgmental world. The film’s tender exploration of emotions makes it a powerful coming-of-age story.
13. Weekend (2011)
Weekend follows Russell and Glen, two men who meet at a bar and spend a life-changing weekend together. The film delves into themes of fleeting love, connection, and the complexity of identity in the context of a brief yet impactful relationship. Much like movies like Call Me by Your Name, Weekend portrays the beauty of a short but profound connection and the emotional and philosophical conversations that shape the characters’ understanding of love and self. The rawness and authenticity of the film make it an unforgettable experience.
14. The Normal Heart (2014)
The Normal Heart is a powerful drama based on Larry Kramer’s play about the early days of the HIV/AIDS epidemic in New York City and the struggle of the LGBTQ+ community for recognition and treatment. The film highlights themes of love, activism, and the emotional toll of a health crisis, similar to movies like Call Me by Your Name. The deep connections between the characters and their unrelenting fight for acceptance create a film that is both heart-wrenching and inspiring, showcasing the resilience of love and the human spirit in the face of adversity.
15. Call Me by Your Name: The Sequel (TBD)
Fans of Call Me by Your Name eagerly await the continuation of Elio and Oliver’s story, as the sequel will explore their lives years after their summer romance. This anticipated sequel promises to revisit the themes of longing, memory, and the ongoing impact of a transformative relationship. Much like movies like Call Me by Your Name, the sequel is expected to delve deeper into the nuances of love, loss, and the passage of time, providing fans with another opportunity to immerse themselves in the emotional complexity of the characters’ lives.
Conclusion: If you’re a fan of Call Me by Your Name, these 15 films will immerse you in stories of love, self-discovery, and coming-of-age struggles. From the tender emotional journeys of Moonlight and The Handmaiden to the raw explorations of identity in Brokeback Mountain and Love, Simon, these films share a common thread: they all explore the transformative power of love in its many forms. Whether it’s the pain of unrequited love or the joy of self-acceptance, these films offer something for everyone who appreciates emotional depth and captivating storytelling. Be sure to check out movies like Call Me by Your Name and discover even more stories that will melt your heart and stay with you long after the credits roll.
