Movies

Paul Mescal’s new movie compared to “Brokeback Mountain on sedatives” in mixed reviews

BBG News

The recently released movie titled “The History of Sound“, featuring Paul Mescal and Josh O’Connor in lead roles, has garnered a mix of positive and negative opinions since its debut.

This romantic drama unfolds the tale of two characters, Lionel (played by Mescal) and David (portrayed by O’Connor), set in post-World War I America. They rekindle their friendship, having known each other from music school a few years prior. Their shared passion for folk music leads them on a journey, where they collaborate to record songs, eventually discovering a deep, romantic affection for one another.

In the direction of Oliver Hermanus and the screenplay by Ben Shattuck, the movie titled The History of Sound did not receive rave reviews after its debut at the 78th Cannes Film Festival, where it was recognized with a Palme d’Or nomination.

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As I compose this text, “The History of Sound” currently boasts a 75% positive review on Rotten Tomatoes based on 16 critiques. The overall sentiment is that the movie’s subdued mood and deliberate pace might appeal to a select audience.

Here’s what some of the reviews have said:

Vanity Fair

In a simpler and more natural way of phrasing: “Hermanus’ approach in the film effectively portrays its prolonged, melancholic heartache across years. However, Lionel and David’s situations sometimes seem less authentic due to the film’s understated emotions appearing more like a gimmick than reality. This is noticeable because Hermanus tends to be discreet when it comes to depicting sex, with minimal on-screen affection or kisses.

Collider

The Evolution of Sound amplifies the music that reflects the hearts of the people. Traditional melodies, preserved and recreated over time by ordinary individuals, serve as a testament to their culture. These songs, pulsating with life, shape the essence of the movie. During the most poignant scenes and the moments of greatest impact, a ballad is either sung or played, adding depth to the emotional resonance.

The Times

In a secluded area of the American wilderness, two men found the freedom to express their affection for one another within the confines of a tent. This setup is reminiscent of the plot from “Brokeback Mountain” and is also featured in “The History of Sound”, although other aspects may not be as successful.

London Evening Standard

Regrettably, despite being a movie centered around music and harmony, its narrative seems quite repetitive. Interestingly, the soundtrack doesn’t seem to enhance this story; instead, it appears to detract from it. Both Mescal and O’Connor deliver commendable performances, but the script and direction are where the issues lie.

BBC.com

The History of Sound does not delve deep into the tumultuous emotions of its leading characters. Instead, it methodically follows their lives from the 1920s, yet it lacks a sense of urgency until what appears to be the last scene. However, there are more scenes following this one, and each seems like the ending, creating a repetitive effect.

Variety

The History of Sound, a minimalist take reminiscent of a Western-style spin-off of Masterpiece Theatre meets Brokeback Mountain, presents as a drama that largely remains static. It’s not without skill, but it feels lethargic and emotionally unresponsive. Essentially, it’s like watching Brokeback Mountain under the influence of sedatives.

The History of Sound does not currently have a release window.

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2025-05-22 15:19

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