A Melodic Journey Through Heartache: Review of The History of Sound
Exploring Love Amidst Historical Turmoil
“Happiness doesn’t tell stories.” This poignant observation resonates deeply in The History of Sound, the latest cinematic gem from South African director Oliver Hermanus. Set against the backdrop of World War I, the film explores the intricacies of love and regret through the lens of two young men whose destinies intertwine in unexpected ways. Based on a short story by Ben Shattuck, the narrative weaves a melancholic tapestry that evokes a profound sense of longing, steering away from the typical portrayals of misery often linked with historical queer relationships.
A Quiet Yet Powerful Narrative
The film introduces us to Lionel, portrayed by the talented Paul Mescal, a young man yearning for escape from his family farm in 1917 Kentucky. Thanks to his extraordinary musical talents, he is offered a position at a music conservatory, where he meets the enigmatic David, brought to life by Josh O’Connor. David, a composer with a remarkable photographic memory, quickly captures Lionel’s heart, and their romance flourishes amid the chaos of war.
The Devastating Impact of War
As their relationship deepens, David receives his draft notice, catapulting them both into uncertainty. Lionel, who struggles with vision without his glasses, is left to navigate his feelings alone when David is sent off to war. The film beautifully captures this shift—although their initial connection is electric, the specter of war transforms David, leaving Lionel unable to fully grasp the changes in his partner.
A Journey of Rediscovery
After the war, David invites Lionel to accompany him on a cross-country tour, commissioned by a university in Maine to catalog local folk tunes. Together, they traverse small towns and vibrant villages, igniting a shared passion through music. Yet, their bond stands on shaky ground—David returns from combat not as the same man Lionel fell in love with, leading to a heart-wrenching dissolution of their once-intimate relationship.
The Passage of Time and Unresolved Yearning
As the years unfold, Lionel’s life takes him from the bustling streets of Rome, singing in a prestigious choir, back to the familiar confines of Kentucky. Despite his artistic success, he remains restless, yearning for resolution. The film’s emotional tension amplifies as Lionel embarks on a quest to find David, only to discover that time has altered more than he ever anticipated.
Masterful Performances and Chemistry
Mescal and O’Connor share an organic chemistry that draws audiences in. Their characters’ initial encounters spill over with genuine spontaneity, enhancing the authenticity of their romantic relationship. However, as World War I casts a long shadow over their lives, the dialogue becomes fraught with unspoken words and unresolved emotions, leaving both characters grappling with their fears about the future.
An Emotional Climax
Hermanus expertly paces the film, culminating in a suspenseful scene involving David’s wife, portrayed by Hadley Robinson. This moment sheds light on David’s fate and breathes new life into Lionel’s quest, leading to an unexpected narrative twist. The film is punctuated by a haunting voiceover from Chris Cooper, who appears as an older Lionel, offering a reflective lens on the passage of time and the weight of choices made and unmade.
Themes of Myth and Memory
One notable conversation between Lionel and his fiancée, Clarissa (played by Emma Canning), delves into the myth of Orpheus and Eurydice, providing a rich subtext for Lionel and David’s relationship. The film poignantly illustrates that life lessons aren’t dictated by mythological archetypes; rather, Lionel’s realization—too late—reinforces the tragic beauty of their story. Much like Jim Croce, who famously sang about expressing love through song, The History of Sound encapsulates the sentiment that sometimes the most profound emotions remain unsaid, echoing through the melody of life.
A Cinematic Ode to Lost Love
In sum, The History of Sound is an exquisite cinematic experience that lingers long after the credits roll. With a running time of 127 minutes, this film invites us to reflect on themes of love, loss, and the relentless passage of time. Reviewed at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival (78th edition), the film leaves viewers with a lingering sense of introspection.
Rating: ★★★☆☆
For fans and film aficionados alike, this is a haunting exploration of what it means to truly listen to the echoes of the heart. Discover more about LGBT cinema and its historical significance in narratives like Brokeback Mountain and The World to Come.
