Not at all disconcerting, perhaps because I had read the novel, and the film is very faithful. Elio is experimenting with his sexuality, both homo- and hetero- throughout the film. Oliver is very sensitive to the mixed signals he's getting and very respectful, though it no doubt feeds his ego to be the object of Elio's crush ... and that's really all Elio's attraction is, a crush. As for the parents ... they're open-minded, discreet, and want only for their son to experience what life offers him. Stuhlbarg's great monologue makes their acceptance of (or complicity in) the situation completely credible ... and admirable.
Gender is relevant, though. It would have been very different if Elio were female.
For the record I saw Chalamet in Prodigal Son at MTC and thought he was excellent, but so was everyone in that cast. Great acting all around in a mediocre play. |
