Exploring Love and Loss in “The History of Sound”
Introduction
“The History of Sound,” directed by Oliver Hermanus, is a poignant exploration of love and longing set against the backdrop of World War I and its aftermath. Premiering at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival, the film is based on a short story by Ben Shattuck, who also penned the screenplay. Starring rising stars Paul Mescal and Josh O’Connor, the film offers a unique take on queer romance, diverging from the grandiose narratives often associated with the genre.
A Unique Perspective on Queer Love
Unlike the sweeping emotional arcs found in films like “Brokeback Mountain,” “The History of Sound” opts for a more understated approach. The story follows Lionel (Mescal), a budding ethnomusicologist, as he navigates his feelings for David (O’Connor), a fellow music student. Their relationship unfolds in a series of fleeting encounters, marked by a sense of yearning and unfulfilled desire. This narrative choice reflects a broader historical context, where societal norms often forced queer individuals to conceal their identities and emotions.
Setting the Scene: Historical Context
Set in the early 20th century, the film captures a time when the world was grappling with the horrors of war and the complexities of human relationships. The characters’ struggles resonate with the historical repression faced by LGBTQ+ individuals during this era. The film subtly hints at the societal pressures that shape Lionel and David’s relationship, allowing viewers to infer the weight of their unspoken feelings.
Character Development and Performances
Paul Mescal delivers a nuanced performance as Lionel, showcasing a range of emotions that reflect his internal conflict. His character possesses a unique form of synesthesia, allowing him to experience music in a deeply personal way. This trait serves as a metaphor for his emotional landscape, as he grapples with his feelings for David while pursuing his passion for music.
O’Connor’s portrayal of David is equally compelling, though his character is less fleshed out. The film presents David primarily through Lionel’s perspective, emphasizing the fleeting moments they share. This narrative choice adds a layer of complexity, as viewers are left to ponder the depth of David’s feelings and experiences.
The Journey of Discovery
The film takes viewers on a journey through the backwoods of Maine, where Lionel and David embark on an impromptu quest to collect American folk songs. This expedition serves as a backdrop for their growing intimacy, allowing them to explore their feelings away from societal scrutiny. The film’s cinematography beautifully captures the contrasting landscapes of America and Europe, enhancing the emotional resonance of their journey.
As they share quiet moments in a tent, the film delicately portrays their connection without resorting to explicit depictions of intimacy. This restraint is a hallmark of Hermanus’ direction, which prioritizes emotional depth over sensationalism. The film’s score, composed by Oliver Coates, further enriches the narrative, evoking a sense of nostalgia and longing.
Themes of Repression and Longing
“The History of Sound” delves into themes of repression and the complexities of desire. The characters’ struggles are not merely personal; they reflect a broader societal context that stifles authentic expression. Lionel’s journey is marked by moments of introspection, as he grapples with his identity and the limitations imposed by society.
The film’s pacing occasionally falters, with some narrative detours that feel like dead ends. However, these moments are often redeemed by the emotional weight they carry. The film’s exploration of queer suffering is subtle yet impactful, allowing viewers to empathize with the characters’ struggles without feeling overwhelmed by tragedy.
A Poignant Conclusion
As the film progresses, Lionel’s path leads him to a bittersweet reunion with David’s eventual wife, Belle (Hadley Robinson). This encounter serves as a poignant reminder of the love that was never fully realized. The film’s final moments resonate with a sense of melancholy, as Lionel reflects on the happiness he found in collecting songs-an allegory for the moments he shared with David.
The soundtrack takes a surprising turn with the inclusion of Joy Division’s “Atmosphere,” a stark contrast to the folk melodies that precede it. This choice underscores the emotional turmoil that lingers long after the credits roll, leaving viewers to contemplate the complexities of love and loss.
Conclusion
“The History of Sound” is a beautifully crafted film that challenges conventional narratives surrounding queer romance. Through its understated approach, the film captures the essence of longing and the impact of societal repression on personal relationships. With powerful performances from Mescal and O’Connor, and a haunting score, the film invites viewers to reflect on the nuances of love, identity, and the sounds that shape our lives. As it opens in select theaters on September 12, audiences are encouraged to experience this poignant exploration of the human condition.
