Why is there such a buzz about..?
Sound Of Metal (Amazon, from Mon)
There are three big reasons why there’s a buzz around Sound Of Metal. First – and most importantly for his fellow Brits – is the sheer quality of Riz Ahmed’s Oscarnominated central performance, which is also up for a Best Actor Bafta at tonight’s awards.
The Wembley-born, former Four Lions star is brilliant as Ruben, the heavy metal drummer whose life is plunged into crisis when he suddenly – and rapidly – starts to lose his hearing.
Then there’s the fact that the film itself – directed and co-written by Darius Marder – is up for no less than six Oscars, including the big one, Best Motion Picture of the Year. Another of those nominations, for Best Supporting Actor, brings us to the third reason to watch – Paul Raci’s quietly powerful performance as the community leader who offers Ruben sanctuary and help.
But, rather like Minari – another small, indie-style film with six nominations – there’s a danger of
Sound Of Metal suffering from sheer weight of expectation. Ahmed looks fabulous behind a drum kit but there’s actually very little drumming in the film. What little heavy metal there is… well, let’s just say it’s of a particularly challenging kind.
No, this is a serious drama about the trauma of a young man suddenly losing not just his hearing but his livelihood, his music and possibly his relationship with Lou (Olivia Cooke, right). Can Ruben rebuild his life? Thanks to Ahmed’s brilliance, you’ll enjoy finding out.