Paul Mescal, Josh O’Connor’s The History of Sound Premieres Cannes

The History of Sound, directed by Oliver Hermanus and starring Paul Mescal and Josh O'Connor, premiered at the Cannes Film Festival as a contemplative period romance set against the backdrop of World War I. The film explores the brief but impactful relationship between Lionel, a musically gifted Kentucky farm boy, and David, a fellow music student, focusing on their shared passion for folk music and the challenges of wartime separation. Critics describe the film as restrained and subtle, emphasizing a celebration of love rather than repression, which Paul Mescal stresses distinguishes it from comparisons to Brokeback Mountain. Mescal and O'Connor, longtime friends, bring chemistry and authenticity to their roles, supported by Hermanus' direction that allowed freedom in character exploration. Despite the talent involved, some reviews note the film's pacing and emotional distance may limit its impact, portraying the romance more as a poignant memory than a sweeping epic. Overall, The History of Sound is recognized for its quiet, intimate approach to a same-sex romance during a turbulent era, with an emphasis on music as a connecting force.