The History of Sound (2025)

The History of Sound is a powerful and poignant drama set during the era of World War I. Directed by Oliver Hermanus and written by Ben Shattuck, the film follows the journey of two young men, Lionel and David, as they embark on a mission to capture the voices, music, and personal stories of American citizens. As the war casts its shadow across the globe, the two protagonists find themselves not only recording history but becoming part of it.

The film features Paul Mescal in the role of Lionel, alongside Josh O’Connor as David and Peter Mark Kendall as Nathan. Their performances bring emotional depth to a narrative that explores themes of identity, memory, and connection in a time of chaos and conflict. Through their field recordings, the characters aim to preserve a portrait of a nation’s soul during wartime.

The History of Sound blends elements of romance, history, and drama to tell a unique and heartfelt story. The emotional journey is further enriched by strong supporting performances and a cinematic style that captures the spirit and texture of the early 20th century. The film stands out not only for its story but also for its focus on human voices as both literal and symbolic echoes of the past.

Main Cast and Crew

Genres: Drama, History, Romance