The History of Sound (M) – 128 minutes

A beautiful, sensitive portrait of love and loss in the early 20^th century, The History of Sound features bravura showings from its two leads.

Lionel (played as an adult by Paul Mascal) has what his father says is a gift from God, namely he can see music – the shape, colour and taste of it.

It never occurred to Lionel that music was only about the sound.

Growing up on a small farm in Kentucky, he won a scholarship to the New England Conservatory in Boston.

That is where he met a man with a dedication to music as ingrained as his own.

David (Josh O’Connor) was playing a soulful ballad on the piano at a bar, a tune totally recognisable to Lionel because his father also sang it.

The pair formed an instant connection and became lovers.

Spending time apart only made Lionel want David all the more.

And so it was that David joined Lionel on a song collecting adventure through remote America.

The pair camped out and visited small communities, recording on wax cylinders deeply felt, handed down folk songs.

It was the most joyful time in Lionel’s life and occurred after David had returned after being conscripted to fight in WWI.

But the pair’s story became far more muddied thereafter, as Lionel continued his life’s journey in music.

Gently paced and poetic in tone, The History of Sound is full of surprises (unexpected turns) and features a compelling, lyrical soundtrack.

Much of the imagery – wooded forests, open fields, tranquil lakes and snow-covered terrain – is highly evocative.

Cinematographer Alexander Dynan has done a fine job capturing pristine landscape.

The screenplay is by Ben Shattuck, based on his own short story, and has been expertly realised by director Oliver Hermanus.

He gives the material time to breathe and manages to land each episode with a deft touch.

The narrative arc is a thoughtful and reflective one.

There is a quiet intensity about Paul Mascal, whose feelings go deep, even though he often has to say little.

Josh O’Connor presents as a go-getter, who won’t let anything stand in his way. A knowing smirk can often be found on his face.

Lionel and David’s interactions with each other and with those with whom they come into contact are invariably meaningful.

The History of Sound is a movie in which much can be drawn from the silences, as well as from the melodic singing.

It is one of the year’s best offerings and scores an 8½ out of 10.