“Sound of Metal” is a 2019 drama film directed by Darius Marder. The film stars Riz Ahmed, Olivia Cooke, and Paul Raci in leading roles.
The story follows Ruben Stone (played by Riz Ahmed), a heavy metal drummer who unexpectedly begins to lose his hearing. Ruben’s life revolves around his passion for music and his relationship with his girlfriend and bandmate, Lou (played by Olivia Cooke).
When Ruben’s hearing rapidly deteriorates, his world is turned upside down. Desperate to find a solution, Ruben seeks medical advice and is informed that he has lost nearly all of his hearing and is a candidate for cochlear implants. Despite the hope offered by this technology, Ruben is resistant to the idea, fearing that it will change his identity as a musician and disrupt his relationship with Lou.
In an attempt to come to terms with his new reality, Ruben joins a community for Deaf recovering addicts led by Joe (played by Paul Raci), a Vietnam War veteran who lost his hearing in combat. Under Joe’s guidance, Ruben learns to embrace his Deaf identity and discovers a sense of belonging within the Deaf community.
As Ruben struggles to reconcile his past with his present, tensions arise between him and Lou, who is concerned about his well-being and uncertain about their future together. Ruben is forced to confront his own insecurities and fears as he grapples with the prospect of a life without music and the uncertainty of his relationship with Lou.
“Sound of Metal” is a powerful exploration of identity, acceptance, and resilience in the face of adversity.
The Other Cinema 