Sound of Metal

by Darius Marder Feature Film Competition

As his girlfriend Lou yells into the microphone, Ruben is beating the drums until they glow. In this musical ecstasy, it is only the moment that counts while any abysmal past no longer matters. As a metal duo, these two lost souls tour the States. Isolated from life in the city, they have created a home in their lovingly furnished mobile caravan when one evening everything changes. Music, conversation, sounds – in Ruben’s ears they remain but a dull, incomprehensible roar. The diagnosis comes as a slap in the face: Ruben is suffering from a sudden loss of hearing and will soon be completely deaf. The pair has to face a tough decision. Ruben reluctantly turns to a facility for the deaf while his plans, his relationship and his whole life are in turmoil. With exquisite sound design and a compelling acting duo, director Darius Marder tells a densely atmospheric tale of lost dreams, new opportunities and the power of silence.

*Golden Eye 2019*