The highly anticipated romantic drama “The History of Sound,” starring Paul Mescal and Josh O’Connor, is slated for a limited theatrical release on September 12, 2025.
Directed by Oliver Hermanus and adapted by Ben Shattuck from his own short story, the film promises a poignant journey through love, memory, and the enduring power of American folk music, with a central gay love affair that resonates deeply.
Set against the backdrop of the early 20th century, the film introduces Lionel (Paul Mescal), a shy musical prodigy who perceives sound in a unique, synesthetic way. His life takes an unexpected turn when he meets the charismatic David (Josh O’Connor) at a Boston conservatory in 1917. Their shared passion for folk music quickly ignites a deep connection, forming the foundation of their tender love story.
Director Oliver Hermanus has emphasized that the film aims to celebrate the romance and the nuanced moments of intimacy between them, rather than focusing on explicit scenes. Subtle details, such as David collecting feathers from Lionel’s pillow, underscore the quiet, domestic tenderness of their bond.
Their burgeoning relationship is soon interrupted by David’s conscription into World War I, a separation that highlights the societal pressures and disruptions of the era. After the war, Lionel and David reconnect, embarking on a winter-long expedition through the remote forests and islands of Maine.
Armed with a phonograph, they meticulously collect and record traditional folk songs, aiming to preserve this fading oral tradition. This shared endeavor not only deepens their unspoken affection, allowing their love to flourish in a more private and unconstrained way, but also explores themes of cultural preservation and the impact of conflict on individual lives.
Paul Mescal has reportedly pushed back against “lazy and frustrating” comparisons to “Brokeback Mountain,” suggesting “The History of Sound” offers a different perspective on queer experience—one that celebrates enduring love and its profound impact on a life, rather than solely societal condemnation.
The film then spans several years, following Lionel’s life as he builds a successful career and experiences new loves across Europe. Yet, he remains perpetually drawn back to the memories of his brief, intense time with David, seeking to understand the enduring impact of their relationship. Chris Cooper portrays an older Lionel, narrating the reflections that frame the film’s emotional landscape, further emphasizing the lasting resonance of this formative connection.
“The History of Sound” premiered at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival, where it garnered significant attention for its sensitive portrayal of a queer romance and the compelling performances of its lead actors.
Early reviews have highlighted the film’s beautiful cinematography, the captivating chemistry between Mescal and O’Connor, and its rich use of a cappella folk songs as both structural and emotional pillars. While some critics have noted a subdued pacing in parts, the film is widely praised for its understated power and the depth of its central performances, offering a poignant and enduring “torch song to lost love.”
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