Prime Video’s movie of the day, “Sound of Metal,” is a profound cinematic experience that teaches viewers how to hear without listening. This film, available on Prime Video, delves deep into the life of Ruben Stone, a drummer in the avant-garde metal duo Blackgammon, who faces the sudden loss of his hearing. The movie is a poignant exploration of how one copes with such a life-altering event.
Riz Ahmed delivers a stellar performance as Ruben, whose world is turned upside down when he realizes his hearing is rapidly deteriorating. His girlfriend and bandmate, Lou, played by Olivia Cooke, tries to support him, but Ruben’s struggle to accept his new reality is palpable. The film’s sound design is particularly noteworthy, as it immerses the audience in Ruben’s experience, making the absence of sound as impactful as the music itself.
Critics have lauded “Sound of Metal” for its balanced storytelling and deep insight into Ruben’s life. Mark Kermode of The Guardian described it as a film that deserves to be seen by the widest possible audience, highlighting cinema’s unique ability to challenge, entertain, uplift, and unite. The Telegraph’s five-star review praised it as a story of awakening, where a man learns to listen and value stillness amidst his crisis of sudden deafness.
Entertainment Weekly also commended the film, noting that as Ruben’s fear and rage give way to acceptance, the movie reaches a profound level, finding power in the spaces between the sound. This sentiment is echoed by many who have watched the film, as it offers a unique perspective on the deaf experience.
The portrayal of deafness in “Sound of Metal” is both accurate and respectful. The film uses distorted and muffled sounds to put viewers in Ruben’s shoes, allowing them to experience his auditory world. The use of captions is also commendable, providing a comprehensive experience for all viewers. The film highlights the importance of closed captions and how they can enhance the viewing experience for everyone.
One of the most striking aspects of the film is its depiction of Ruben’s journey with cochlear implants. The movie avoids the common misconception that cochlear implants are a miracle cure. Instead, it shows the reality of the adjustment process and the challenges that come with it. The film emphasizes that cochlear implants and hearing aids are not fixes but tools that require adaptation and training.
The film also explores the concept of “reverse dinner table syndrome,” where Ruben feels isolated in a group of people who are signing because he doesn’t know sign language. This highlights the importance of communication and inclusion within the deaf community. As Ruben learns ASL, he begins to connect with others and finds a sense of belonging.
Throughout the film, there are moments that showcase the deaf community’s unique ways of experiencing the world. For instance, a scene where a child feels the vibrations of Ruben drumming on a metal slide, or when characters place their hands on a piano to feel the music, underscores the importance of vibration and tactile experiences for those who are deaf.
The film’s ending is particularly poignant. Ruben, after receiving his cochlear implants, struggles to reintegrate into the hearing world. He eventually finds peace in the silence, symbolizing his acceptance of his new identity. This moment is a powerful reminder of the importance of embracing one’s reality and finding stillness within it.
“Sound of Metal” is a film that not only tells a compelling story but also educates its audience about the deaf experience. It challenges viewers to rethink their perceptions of sound and silence, and to appreciate the diverse ways in which people experience the world. For those looking for a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant film, “Sound of Metal” on Prime Video is a must-watch.
