The History of Sound, a historical romantic drama, has been making waves in the film industry. Directed by Oliver Hermanus and written by Ben Shattuck, the movie is based on two of Shattuck’s short stories from his poem collection. The film features Paul Mescal and Josh O’Connor in an epic tale of music, love, and memory.
The movie premiered in competition at the Cannes Film Festival in May 2025 and was shortlisted for the Palme d’Or. It was later released in the US on September 12, 2025, via Mubi. The film’s production relied extensively on real-world locations to ground its period setting, with filming taking place in Italy, New Jersey, and New England.
In Italy, the Lazio region and Rome were notable locations, with Tarquinia being a significant setting. The Italian landscapes added grandeur and authenticity to the film’s post-war setting. In the US, the cast visited New Jersey, with Saint Elizabeth University in Morristown standing in for areas of the Boston Music Conservatory. The production team also filmed in Hoboken, where the restaurant 10th & Willow was temporarily closed for filming, and the Oakley Farm Museum in Freehold Township.
The story follows Lionel and David, who meet at the Boston Music Conservatory in 1917 and form a musical and romantic connection. After David returns from World War I, the duo embarks on a journey across rural Maine in 1920, documenting folk songs for scholarly preservation. The movie explores themes of remembrance, love, loss, and how one’s personal history is shaped by sound and song.
The cast is supported by Chris Cooper as an older Lionel, Molly Price as his mother, and Briana Middleton as Thankful Mary Swain. The film’s release has generated significant buzz, with many praising its epic tale and historical setting. The History of Sound is a notable addition to the film industry, offering a unique perspective on the power of sound and music in shaping our personal histories.
