Is It Better To Speak Or Die?

Call Me by Your Name

Yes, finally the most anticipated film of the year, by me at least! I cannot express just how excited I was to finally see this film. While I am someone who lives for films, you will not find me wondering around a cinema often, I simply find myself not bothered by new releases in the mainstream sector of cinema. However, once in a while I get a surprise and find something that I cannot afford to miss, or perhaps the film finds me, anyhow that was the case for Call Me by Your Name. I stumbled upon the trailer and I knew straight away that this is a film that I would not want to miss, it was simply so fresh and pure. The film was scoring big worldwide regardless of its small release scale, the critics were in awe, and now I finally know why... There is just something about Indie films that simply catches my attention, the ability to capture raw emotions and evoke a responce within its audience, mainsteam films simply cannot comapre to such films, most likely due to the artistic freedom that Indie directors behold, meaning that expression is in the focus. 

This masterpiece comes from an Italian director known as Luca Guadagnino, therefore it comes as no surprise that the film was shot in the beautiful Italian scenery. Based on a book of the same name, set in the 80s, during a hot summer where everything is possible, an adolescent boy named Elio finds himself wound up in something he has never been able to experience, or feel before. Upon first glance, the film is a coming of age story about a teenager finding himself in the adult world, while facing many obstacles along the way; however the story of Elio and Oliver has much more to offer than a few tears and moments of joy. The film begins innocently; Oliver arrives as a doctoral intern for Elio’s father. From the beginning, Oliver is in the centre of everyone’s interest, he is a tall, handsome American with luscious blond hair and a killer smile, however just like Elio, unaware that this particular summer will likely change him for the rest of his life. The setting of the film along with its scenery, elegantly, yet, youthfully sets the mood of the film, summer is at its peak and life seems to be blissful, nothing can go wrong. 

Upon meeting the two main protagonists the audience are able to sense tension between them, whether it is competition, or simply a sense of hostility, it certainly is felt in the atmosphere. Oliver being the outgoing, charming, yet, rather enigmatic man captures the attention of young Elio. Elio on the other hand, is a curious boy in the making, while Oliver is the ‘finished product’ a role model some may argue, Elio is searching for something; arguably Oliver represent something that Elio strives to become. The dynamic of the two main protagonists highlights their differences, and also the fact that for Elio, Oliver, seem to be an authority figure; when asked by Oliver why Elio always seems to be putting himself down, he tells Oliver that he does it so Oliver cannot, this again highlights that while Elio yearns to be liked by Oliver, at the same time dreads the judgment that may come along the way. The onscreen chemistry between Chalamet (Elio) and Hammer (Oliver) is simply mind-blowing, and there is no doubt that these two actors gave their all in portraying the young troubled men; perhaps the dedication and courage of the actors made the story such a beautiful heartfelt one, as after all, this is just a story about two people who deeply care about each other. In addition, what is a striking feature of the film and the story is definitely Elio’s parents, and their rather liberal approach to life and Elio’s upbringing. I must admit that seeing a teenager in the phase of ‘becoming’ have such an open and trusty relationship with his parents was fairly surprising and comforting to say the least, it is not often that films explore such complex themes of growing up in such an open and positive manner, there is no conflict between Elio and his parents, just trust and honesty. Although there is a sense of innocence within the narrative, the film does take on some rather intimate, and at times taboo subjects, however what makes the film such an outstanding piece is the explorative and curious nature that does not aim to exploit, but simply just tell a story of two vulnerable people; a story which is relatable.

Call Me by Your Name, is not provocative, shameful or filled with judgment; it shines in sensuality and piercing intellect. When watching this film, the audience do not feel like voyeurs intruding, they get a chance to feel a part of a rather bitter sweet tale. The film deals with tricky issues, yet it manages to do it so subtlety without exploiting the characters, or their behaviour. Guadagnino certainly takes a fresh look on the complexity of ‘becoming’, and the complex and often ambiguous emotions related to relationships between two people; yes, in this instance homosexual relationships. However, Guadagnino succeeds at telling a beautifully heartbreaking (grab some tissues because you will cry) love story, where the main focus is not on the sexuality of the characters, but it is, in fact, on the raw emotions, desire and simple love felt by them. While the film is very fresh visually, and arguably very blissfully ‘simple’, it is far from being just that. What drives the narrative is the complex and changing dynamic between the characters, the narrative is build on many layers, and what meets the eye has more to offer. At times, the audience take part in intimate and very personal occurrences, however, what adds value to it, is the deep, layered and metaphorical meaning being convey through such scenes. The characters learn about each other simultaneously with the audience. It is simply rare to feel so close to the characters and feel every emotion that they do, and at the same time, not feeling like an intruder.

Due to the nature of the film, dealing with issues such as homosexuality and age gap love, one would expect  the film to be heavy and rather melancholic, however it simply is  ‘just’ a love story, nothing less or more than that, however this does not mean that it is ‘another love story’ that the audience could possibly go without, it means that despite the ‘deviant’ nature of the relationship, at least during the time that it is set in, it is just like any another love story, as the film does not aim to emphasise the problematic nature of the relationship, but to portray the real feelings, desires and love felt by two people; the film magnificently portrays love as simply ‘ love’, allowing the audience to understand that one’s sexual orientation does not make love different, one thing is for sure, love simply is universal. However, just like any other ‘love story’ life gets in the way, and one thing you learn for sure, kids, is that life isn’t fair, its just so FUCKING unfair! While the film may be set in a different era, it amazes me how little progress has been made, how we live in a time where equality is the main agenda, yet, how some have the ‘privilege’ to love one another, while others do not.

Call Me by Your Name, portrays a chapter of one’s life, the past is the past, and the future awaits, what matters in the story is THAT particular summer and THOSE particular two people which paths have crossed. Often, which such films the endings seem to be ambiguous, or even bleak, however that’s only because such films represent life and only an event, or a chapter, the rest is untold and left in the hands of the characters. What seems to be a reoccurring theme is the purity of the story and of the overall atmosphere of the film, however to say that this love story is simple would be untrue, just like every love story; the main protagonists face issues that can and cannot be overcome. While the film is free from judgment, it certainly conveys a strong message that reflects society. Homosexual love does not seem to be problematic as previously mentioned, the director establishes early on that this love story does not differ from any other, however the way that the outer society reacts to it is still an issue; perhaps the environment where the love blossomed, is in one way, or another, idealistic. The ‘ideal’ parental figures that Elio has, heavily contrast how society perceives people who, in one way, or another, do not conform to norms. The main focus is, of course, the story of Elio and Oliver; however the narrative also explores common issues associated with ‘queer’ relations. Of course, Elio’s upbringing varies from the traditional one; however he still struggles with denial and shame due to what he feels and desires, while this is not the main focus of the film, it certainly adds to the messaged being conveyed. Not only is the film intelligent, but at times, it is also very philosophical. 

While Call Me by Your Name is very bitter sweet to say the least, it certainly crawls deep under the skin, it does not exploit, yet, it exposes the brutal truth of society. Light hearted at times, sweet and innocent, yet, underneath all the art and poetry, a serious issue is raised; there is no doubt that the film will linger on, long after the end credits roll. One thing is for sure, the film raises many questions that will affect the audience and subtlety, yet, directly provoke them to think. The film is an honest portrayal of emotions, without being theatrical, dramatic, or simply sugar coated. Call Me by Your Name, does not aim to please, but to raise awareness, to open minds to show something so real and authentic, yet, poetic and painful. What seems to be clear, is that the director takes on a very suggestive approach in telling the story, through symbolisms and ambiguity; the symbolism of nature blooming reflecting one's becoming. Overall, the film is about the ‘moment’ and the emotions associated with it; whatever emotions fills your heart, you ought to feel it, never deny yourself of feelings, whether its joy, or sorrow, emotions demand to be felt, as after all, they are just a part of life.

The film is simply stunning, visually, metaphorically and also in regards to its euphoric soundtrack; fresh, yet aesthetically eloquent. I could not recommend this film enough, as it simply has it all. Personally, I felt so moved and broken by the film, questioning the unfairness of life. The director deserves a standing ovation for cleverly manipulating the screen in order to produce something so sweet, bitter and intelligent, yet, by no means heavy or mournful. There are lessons to be learnt, yet if you have ever been in love, perhaps you will see that this particular love story is not any different to what we already know. If the film teaches us one thing, it maybe just be how important it is to love and respect one another, because we ALL deserve to feel truly happy in life, without worrying about the judgment of others.

Anna Gaszkowska

So If I Wasn't A Transvestite Terrorist... Would You Marry Me?

Breakfast on Pluto

Just Tommy Shelby, doing some Grace dress up HA!

Whether you are familiar with the jaw dropping, masterpiece that is of course, Peaky Blinders, you may have probably heard of an actor that goes by the name of Cillian Murphy; yes, the Irish born, blue eyed, charming and humble, yet, villainous looking man. Red Eye, must have been one of the first films that I watched where Murphy, transformed into a man poisoned with evil (and boy was I scared). I don’t know what it was; perhaps everything about this man, but there was no doubt that Murphy beholds such immense talent. For some time, I believed that Cillian Murphy is the ultimate ‘bad guy’ type of actor; he simply has that look about him. Murphy’s talent and versatility has been shown in various films ranging from Boyle’s zombie smash hit 28 Days Later, to  Webber’s Girl with the Pearl Earring, of course, not forgetting to mention that Murphy is among Nolan’s favourite picks for his remarkable films. Upon seeing a range of different films starring Murphy, I stumbled upon an Irish film directed by Neil Jordan, who is also known for The Interview with the Vampire. Oh yes, Breakfast on Pluto... The title sold it to me. You see, an actor who plays the same man, but in different setting is no good, to get to know someone’s talent, uniqueness and his passion, one must break all the rules, and well, Cillian Murphy dressed as a woman does just that! 

Thomas Shelby, Peaky Blinders

Today, the audience are likely to find Cillian Murphy occupying our screen taking on the role of Thomas Shelby, I mean sure, I could talk about the brilliance of Peaky Blinders and the portrayal of Tommy Shelby, but that would take a while, there is no doubt that, Murphy certainly is a man of many faces and talents! So as you are guessing, it is rather hard and perhaps bizarre, to even imagine the ultimate ‘alpha male’ playing anything else, but that. Although, Murphy has enabled the audience to see a much more sensitive side of him in films such as Disco Pigs, where he charmed the audience with a cheeky boyish grin and distinct persona, portraying a young troubled transvestite is rather extreme. 

The film is set in Ireland during the 70s, Murphy takes on the role of Patrick, a young flamboyant, mouthy and sassy teen who was left at the doorstep of a priest (portrayed by the lovely Liam Neeson) as a baby. Soon, the audience learn that Patrick, or as he likes to call himself, St. Kitten, was adopted by a local woman, who let’s put it lightly, has not got much love to offer him. From the start of the film, the audience embark on a journey with young Patrick, as he experiments with who he is from stealing his adopted mum’s clothes and shoes, to evolving into a rather extravagant and fabulous teenager, and let me tell you... Kitten does not like to be messed with. The narrative of the film focuses on Patrick’s goal of finding his mother. As an audience, we see Patrick being troubled with fantasies of his mother, simply questioning and reasoning why she abandoned him and left. The film covers a vast amount of issues of a child left behind. What stands out the most about Patrick, is his attitude and courage, he is who he is, and there is no one that can tame him, honey... While the issues raised by the film from the very beginning are not ‘light’, the film’s atmosphere and heartfelt humour certainly is at times, and it’s all thanks to Murphy simply being so damn good at what he is doing. Although, the story of the sweet Patrick seems uplifting at the beginning, his story has more to offer; often being a tragic tale of a broken man. The film certainly conveys many important messages, one of them is to never lose your true self, you may be broken, beaten, or just hurt, but always stay true to yourself. The ever so glamorous Patrick has an agenda, while there are many obstacles waiting, he is set and focused. As a whole, the film enables its audience to witness the coming of age transformation of a very daring, but a very lonely and broken young man, the world is his stage. While the film certainly romanticises the journey, it does not fail to portray the real irony of life.

There is no doubt that in order to portray a man struggling with his sexuality, or even identity, it took a lot of preparation and a lot of hard work, but Cillian Murphy has managed to do an outstanding job at keeping his audience simply hooked. Murphy’s portrayal of the charismatic young boy, who is lost, yet fearless, is simply captivating and raw.  The character of Patrick simply shines in charisma and boldness; yes, one thing is for sure, the idea behind the film and the end result is simply bold. Although, this may not be Murphy’s most well-known role, it certainly is a great indicator of his tremendous talent! Patrick is elegant, sexy, seductive and absolutely beautiful, which is highly contrasting to what we are likely to find Murphy usually portraying in his roles. 

Breakfast on Pluto is a bittersweet tale of a lonely boy, who beholds such uniqueness, yet, is just like one of us, yearning to be loved and accepted. While Patrick is independent and very goal orientated, he still exhibits child like characteristics, the idea of the film being separated into little chapters also adds to the childlike atmosphere of child/ teen writing a diary, or perhaps a book. Maybe the story is so bold and colourful is because Patrick is making it up like a fiction book, after all Patrick is a man/ or woman of many talents, who likes to see the world through rose tinted, heart shaped sunglasses. Overall, the film is well put together, the soundtrack accompanying the film fits well with the time period, as well as the persona of the characters. At times, the mise en scene is flashy and theatrical, which arguably aids in establishing Patrick’s character. The narrative of the film evolves with the growth of the main protagonists, often shifting in mood and atmosphere, evoking emotions in the form of sympathy within the audience. Not only does the film share the story of Patrick with its audience, it allows the audience to form a bond with him in the form of a friendship. The film is rather atmospheric and candy coated, but this could not have been done without the incredible talent of Murphy, there is no doubt that you will be in awe seeing this man (yes, a man) walk in pointy stilettos, wearing a flattering dress along with a stylish hat and doing it so damn good... I found myself questioning, how can a man, who is so suave and simply beholds such handsome uniqueness, become such a beautiful woman who is filled with so much grace and elegance. So, if you are looking for something a little different to watch, something that will make you laugh, break your heart and most importantly shock you, then I think this is a film for you!

 Anna Gaszkowska