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The History of Sound

The History of Sound

The History of Sound

Dir. Oliver Hermanus
127 min
R

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ABOUT THE FILM

Starring Paul Mescal and Josh O’Connor, The History of Sound is a sweeping, moving and tender romance that spans decades and continents. It tells the story of a love that can’t last, a life forever altered, and the ways in which music creates bonds between us that echo for a lifetime.

In 1917, Lionel (Mescal, Aftersun) – a young, talented music student – meets David (O’Connor, Challengers) at the Boston Conservatory, where a connection over a deep love of music leads to a fleeting love affair. They reconnect years later, leading to an impromptu journey through the backwoods of Maine to collect traditional folk songs. This unexpected reunion and the music they preserve will shape the course of Lionel’s life for decades to come.

Sumptuously realized by director Oliver Hermanus (Living) and based on a short story by Ben Shattuck, this is a beautiful and compelling cinematic experience that invites audiences to reflect on the power of music and love.

Film Details

Program: New Releases
Film Type: Fiction Feature
Release Year: 2025
Runtime: 127 min
Country/Region: USA
Rating: R
Language: English
Print Source: MUBI
Tags: Adaptation, Drama, Historical Drama, LGBTQIA+, Music, Romance

Cast/Crew

Director: Oliver Hermanus
Producer: Lisa Ciuffetti, Oliver Hermanus, Andrew Kortschak, Sara Murphy, Thérèsa Ryan, Zhang Xin
Cinematographer: Alexander Dynan
Screenwriter: Ben Shattuck
Editor: Chris Wyatt
Composer: Oliver Coates
Principal Cast: Paul Mescal, Josh O’Connor, Chris Cooper