Paul Mescal and Josh O’Connor portray lovers separated by fate and history in the newly released trailer for The History of Sound, a queer romance directed by Oliver Hermanus. The film, set in 1917 America during World War I, explores a poignant love story between Lionel (Mescal), an aspiring music student, and David (O’Connor), whom he meets at the Boston Conservatory through their mutual passion for folk music.
Love Rekindled Amidst Musical Endeavors
Years after their initial meeting, Lionel and David reunite in Maine under the pretext of a musical collaboration. Their rekindled relationship quickly develops into a profound love affair, one that significantly influences Lionel’s life in ways he initially fails to recognize. The trailer traces their journey from hopeful beginnings to the harsh realities imposed by war. As David faces the likelihood of being drafted, their once-shared dreams are shadowed by uncertainty and separation.
“There was a moment when I realized I had probably never been as happy as I was when collecting songs,”
Lionel reflects, narrating his memories filled with both joy and longing. —Lionel
Supporting Cast and Source Material
The film also features performances by Molly Price, Alison Bartlett, and Chris Cooper. It draws inspiration from a short story penned by Ben Shattuck, which adds depth to the narrative by weaving together themes of love, memory, and music.
Director’s Vision on Love and Memory
Oliver Hermanus described his connection to the project as deeply personal, having spent five years living with the story. He emphasized how it expanded his understanding of love and the enduring power of music.
“I’ve been living with this film, this story, for five years,”
Hermanus said.
This film has been a personal and defining journey; it has moved me to a new country, educated me about the power of music and song, it has conjured a re evaluation of love and the bonds that last a lifetime.
—Oliver Hermanus
The director further explained that the story is not only one of hidden queer lives marked by shame and secrecy but also an exploration of a man’s entire existence
“expressed through the power of sound — as memory, as emotion, as family.”
Contemplating the Echoes of a Life and Love
Hermanus described the film as an intimate homage to cinema that communicates subtle emotional truths. It raises reflective questions about love’s permanence and the resonance of past experiences.
“Made with a deep affection for cinema that does not shout or scream its intention,”
he said, describing the film as
“an offering of an idea, a very potent one: what if one’s first love, one’s great love, and one’s last love are all in one, and all too soon in one’s life? What is it to live a life that is an echo? What does it sound like, in retrospect? And if offered a choice, would you change the course of your life’s path?”
—Oliver Hermanus
Anticipated Release and Recent Work of the Leads
The History of Sound is scheduled to open on September 12. Paul Mescal’s recent projects include Gladiator II, Foe, and All of Us Strangers, while Josh O’Connor’s latest films are Challengers, Bonus Track, and Lee. Their compelling portrayal of star-crossed lovers promises to engage audiences with a reflective and heartfelt narrative that resonates beyond its historical setting.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Josh O’Connor dyslexic?
A. O’Connor mentioned that his school’s drama program was a support for him while handling his dyslexia, particularly during his GCSE exam preparation.
