The drum beats whether you hear it or not in Sound of Metal, the narrative feature debut of co-writer/director Darius Marder.
Ruben’s life was right where he wanted it. Having overcome drug addiction, he was able to fully invest in his relationship with his girlfriend, Lou, and their heavy metal band. An RV and an endless series of shows may not be everyone’s vision of paradise, but it made them happy until a strange ringing brought everything to halt. Ruben suddenly and rapidly began losing his hearing, which put everything he’s built his life around in jeopardy.
This is a film people have been raving about since its premiere at last year’s Toronto International Film Festival, partially for the performance of Riz Ahmed as the hard-hitting drummer with hearing loss and partially for how Marder approaches the material. You can hear bits of his inventive sound design in the trailer: things fade in and out and are occasionally near silent. Bold choices for an audiovisual medium like film, and one that should provide a unique experience.
Co-starring Olivia Cooke as Lou and several actors from the deaf community, according to most people who have been able to see it early, this is definitely one to seek out.
Sound of Metal is directed by Darius Marder and stars Riz Ahmed, Olivia Cooke, and Paul Raci. It will be released in theaters in the US on November 20th, 2020, and on Amazon Prime December 4th, 2020.
Will you check this one out? Let us know in the comments!
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