Is The History of Sound a Heartfelt Love Story or Just a Dull Wartime Drama?

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Among the most eagerly awaited premieres at Cannes, this film, featuring two popular internet couples, was expected to be a sizzling romance. However, it turned out to be less steamy than anticipated, and those familiar with Oliver Hermanus’ work may have predicted as much. Instead, it offers a thoughtful exploration of the profound impact of music, which might seem corny but is truly moving.

However, “The History of Sound” is far from cheesy. Instead, it’s profound and subtly heart-wrenching. While it strives to challenge the norms of queer dramas, it unavoidably slips into some of the pitfalls it aims to avoid, finding itself in a limbo between fulfilling expectations and falling short, dangerously close to the mediocrity it almost transcends.

The History Of Sound Is Strongest When Conveying The Impact Of A Relationship

The film titled “The History of Sound” is derived from a short story by Ben Shattuck, who also scripted the movie version. As Shattuck expands his narrative into a two-hour feature, the movie seems to strain under the pressure of its lofty aspirations. The story revolves around Lionel Worthington (Paul Mescal), a young man from Kentucky, on the brink of World War I, who departs his family’s farm to pursue music studies in Boston. In this new environment, he encounters David (Josh O’Connor), another student more fascinated by the conservation and influence of music than actual performance. Upon their encounter, they embark on a relationship, using contemporary terminology, one might call it a situation-ship.

In summary, while we’re led to believe their connection is deep yet short-lived, Hermanus doesn’t delve deeply into how they ended up together. Instead, he jumps around in the timeline. It’s unfortunate because Mescal and O’Connor share a strong on-screen chemistry. If more attention had been given to their relationship at the start, the film might have reached even greater emotional depths later on.

Despite having to separate when David gets conscripted for the war, they eventually embark on a journey through the countryside of New England together. During this trip, Lionel joins his partner in recording local folk tunes from the area.

The Story of Sound shows an insightful perspective on how even fleeting relationships such as the one between Lionel and David can have enduring impacts. It’s simple to underestimate what a short period can truly signify in someone’s life, but sometimes duration isn’t significant. The right individual can alter a person’s life and leave an indelible impression, regardless of whether it’s minutes, weeks, months, or years.

In a poignant manner, Mescal conveys an understated melancholy following the permanent separation of Lionel and David. This emotional upheaval permeates every aspect of his life, influencing his career choices (Lionel pursues singing in Europe after David encourages him to do so) and romantic entanglements (Lionel appears fickle, as if he maintains this non-commitment in hopes that it might make him more appealing to David should they reconcile).

Similar to the haunting melodies that echo through the movie, David serves as the spectral presence hovering over it. O’Connor delivers subtle yet impactful performances here; his smile lingers in the background of the narrative, much like how it lingers in Lionel’s thoughts. As a result, The History of Sound takes on a more subdued tone, permeated by sorrow rather than the euphoria of love. Despite this melancholic atmosphere, the film retains its potency – the climax still packs a powerful punch, and Hermanus’ strategic reintroduction of a pivotal song from the beginning adds emotional weight to the ending. This understated approach by the director gives this drama an air of grandeur rather than sensuality.

The History of Sound premiered at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival.

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2025-05-22 00:29