Directed by Oliver Hermanus
While an exact date has not been confirmed, The History of Sound is expected to premiere at the Cannes Film Festival in May 2025.
Distributed by Mubi and Focus Features/Universal Pictures International.
Movie Review
The History of Sound (2025) is a historical drama set during World War I, following two young men, Lionel (Paul Mescal) and David (Josh O’Connor), as they embark on a mission to record soldiers’ voices, forging a deep emotional bond along the way.
The film explores themes of memory, love, and the power of sound in preserving history.
Directed by Oliver Hermanus and based on Ben Shattuck’s short story, the movie highlights intimate wartime stories and the impact of sound.
With strong performances and a poignant narrative, it’s set to be a major player in the 2025 Cannes Film Festival, distributed by Mubi and Focus Features.
The History of Sound (2025) Actors
Paul Mescal as Lionel
DOB: February 2, 1996
Paul Mescal gained international recognition for his role in Normal People (2020).
A rising star, he quickly became known for his depth in emotional roles and raw performances.
Role in the Movie: Paul Mescal portrays Lionel, a central character whose life journey explores themes of love, loss, and discovery.
What to Expect: An intense, layered performance that showcases Lionel’s struggles and growth.
Favorite Activities: Paul is known to enjoy playing music and spending time with close friends and family.
Notable Works: Normal People (2020), The Lost Daughter (2021), Aftersun (2022).
Josh O’Connor as David
DOB: May 20, 1990
Josh O’Connor, known for his Emmy-winning performance as Prince Charles in The Crown, is an actor with a strong presence in both television and film.
Role in the Movie: Josh plays David, a complex character whose emotional turmoil adds depth to the film’s exploration of sound and memory.
What to Expect: A nuanced portrayal that balances vulnerability and strength.
Favorite Activities: Josh enjoys outdoor activities, including hiking and nature walks.
Notable Works: The Crown (2016-2020), God’s Own Country (2017), Challengers (2024).
Chris Cooper as Older Lionel
DOB: July 9, 1951
Chris Cooper is an acclaimed American actor with a career spanning over four decades, recognized for his powerful performances in both dramatic and comedic roles.
Role in the Movie: As the older version of Lionel, Chris portrays the character’s later years, offering insight into the choices and reflections that shaped Lionel’s life.
What to Expect: A moving and reflective performance, giving depth to Lionel’s evolution.
Favorite Activities: Chris is passionate about reading and wildlife conservation.
Notable Works: Adaptation (2002), The Bourne Identity (2002), Seabiscuit (2003).
Molly Price as Lionel’s Mother
DOB: December 15, 1966
Molly Price is an experienced actress, best known for her role in Third Watch and other notable television series.
Role in the Movie: As Lionel’s mother, Molly provides the emotional backbone to the character’s formative years, offering warmth and guidance.
What to Expect: A heartfelt performance that anchors Lionel’s backstory in familial love.
Favorite Activities: Molly enjoys baking and playing tennis.
Notable Works: Third Watch (1999-2005),Bionic Woman (2007), The History of Sound (2025).
Alison Bartlett as Samantha
DOB: July 14, 1971
Alison Bartlett has had a successful career in both television and film, recognized for her versatility and strong performances in various genres.
Role in the Movie: Alison portrays Samantha, a close ally of Lionel who provides support through his tumultuous journey.
What to Expect: A compassionate and grounded performance that offers stability to Lionel’s character.
Favorite Activities: Alison is passionate about gardening and yoga.
Notable Works: The Innkeepers (2011), Submission (2017).
Michael Schantz as Bob
DOB: Not available
Michael Schantz is an actor with a diverse range of roles in both theater and film, known for his deep voice and strong stage presence.
Role in the Movie: Michael plays Bob, a character that plays a pivotal role in the development of Lionel’s journey.
What to Expect: A solid performance that balances wisdom and sternness.
Favorite Activities: Michael enjoys playing the piano and composing music.
Notable Works: Thorp (2020).
Raphael Sbarge as Lionel Sr.
DOB: January 12, 1964
Raphael Sbarge is an actor best known for his work in television, having a long-running career in various beloved series.
Role in the Movie: Raphael portrays Lionel’s father, a critical character who shapes the early life of Lionel.
What to Expect: A subtle yet poignant performance, adding complexity to Lionel’s upbringing.
Favorite Activities: Raphael enjoys hiking and photography.
Notable Works: Once Upon a Time (2011-2018).
Hadley Robinson as Belle
DOB: May 1, 1996.
Hadley Robinson is a young, talented actress known for her breakthrough role in I’m Your Woman (2020).
Role in the Movie: Hadley plays Belle, a character that plays a vital role in Lionel’s life, bringing emotional support and challenging his views.
What to Expect: A strong, empathetic performance that enhances the emotional layers of the film.
Favorite Activities: Hadley enjoys photography and reading.
Notable Works: Appendage (2023), I’m Thinking of Ending Things (2020).
Gary Raymond as William
DOB: January 20, 1935
Gary Raymond has a career spanning over five decades, with notable performances in television, film, and theater.
Role in the Movie: Gary plays William, a character who imparts wisdom and life lessons to Lionel.
What to Expect: A nuanced performance that offers depth and guidance to the protagonist.
Favorite Activities: Gary enjoys hiking and traveling.
Notable Works: The Rat Patrol(1966 – 1968).
Dan Bittner as Hal
DOB: June 24, 1982
Dan Bittner is an actor with a long history in both TV and independent films. He is known for his dramatic and intense performances.
Role in the Movie: Dan portrays Hal, a character that provides pivotal moments of tension and resolution in Lionel’s arc.
What to Expect: A gripping performance full of emotional intensity.
Favorite Activities: Dan enjoys writing and watching documentaries.
Notable Works: The Plot Against America (2020), Law Abiding Citizen (2009).
Samuel H. Levine as Friend
DOB: 1995
Samuel H. Levine is a rising star in the industry, known for his stage and film roles.
Role in the Movie: Samuel plays a supportive friend to Lionel, providing moral support throughout his journey.
What to Expect: A sincere performance that highlights the importance of friendship and loyalty.
Favorite Activities: Samuel enjoys spending time with family and writing poetry.
Notable Works: Minyan (2020), Yinz (2018).
Tom Nelis as Grandfather
DOB: Not available
Tom Nelis is an actor with a long career in theater, film, and television.
He has been a member of several prestigious theater companies.
Role in the Movie: Tom portrays Lionel’s grandfather, a figure who plays a crucial role in shaping his early life.
What to Expect: A deep, heartfelt performance that emphasizes the generational influence on Lionel’s development.
Favorite Activities: Tom enjoys gardening and playing chess.
Notable Works: Little Kings(2003), Girl From The North Country (2024).
Aedin Moloney as Mary Conway
DOB: July 5, 1968
Aedin Moloney is a versatile actress and producer, with a strong background in theater and independent films.
Role in the Movie: Aedin plays Mary Conway, a character who helps shape Lionel’s path in life, offering wisdom and perspective at crucial moments.
What to Expect: A grounded and inspiring performance that provides emotional depth to Lionel’s journey.
Favorite Activities: Aedin enjoys reading, hiking, and spending time in nature.
Notable Works: Agnes Browne (1999), The Exorcist (2016)
Aidan Redmond as John Conway
DOB: Not available
Aidan Redmond is an experienced actor with a rich career in both television and film, often known for his dramatic roles.
Role in the Movie: Aidan plays John Conway, a character whose interactions with Lionel help provide clarity and understanding to the film’s broader themes.
What to Expect: A compelling performance that adds texture to Lionel’s relationships and internal conflicts.
Favorite Activities: Aidan enjoys traveling, reading, and playing tennis.
Notable Works: Son of the South (2020), Glenrothan (Upcoming)
Sam Breslin Wright as Instructor
DOB: Not available
Sam Breslin Wright is known for his work in film and theater, bringing a subtle yet impactful presence to his roles.
Role in the Movie: Sam plays the Instructor, a character who influences Lionel’s understanding of sound and its emotional impact.
What to Expect: A controlled, thoughtful performance that helps guide the direction of Lionel’s transformation.
Favorite Activities: Sam enjoys reading history books and practicing meditation.
Notable Works: Madam Secretary (2014). The Crowded Room (2023).
Holden Goodman as Student
DOB: September 4, 1992
Holden Goodman is an emerging actor with notable roles in stage productions and independent films.
Role in the Movie: Holden portrays a Student, a minor yet pivotal character who helps Lionel reflect on his journey through a shared academic space.
What to Expect: A brief but meaningful performance that highlights the theme of youth and learning.
Favorite Activities: Holden enjoys playing sports and photography.
Notable Works: Known for Ketchup on Waffles, Game On! and Mother_Mary.
Alec Preston as Singing Conservatory Student
DOB: Not available
Alec Preston is a young actor and singer, known for his performances in musicals and film.
Role in the Movie: Alec plays a Singing Conservatory Student, a character that introduces Lionel to the emotional and expressive power of sound.
What to Expect: A brief yet dynamic performance that highlights the importance of music and the arts in Lionel’s development.
Favorite Activities: Alec enjoys singing and performing in theater.
Notable Works: Happy Gilmore 2 (2025) and The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon (2014).
Leo Cocovinis as Young Lionel
DOB: October 3, 2015
Leo Cocovinis is an up-and-coming actor with a growing career in film, known for his work in both contemporary dramas and period pieces.
Role in the Movie: Leo portrays Young Lionel, providing insight into the early years of the character’s life.
What to Expect: A tender performance that reveals the roots of Lionel’s journey and his complex relationship with sound.
Favorite Activities: Leo enjoys skateboarding and playing the guitar.
Notable Works: 12 Desperate Hours (2023).
Will Inman as Oxford Student
DOB: February 6, 1987
Will Inman is an actor with experience in both stage and film, known for his distinctive voice and versatile range.
Role in the Movie: Will plays an Oxford Student, whose role emphasizes the academic and intellectual journey that Lionel experiences.
What to Expect: A small but impactful role that contributes to the overarching theme of learning and self-discovery.
Favorite Activities: Will enjoys playing chess and reading classic literature.
Notable Works: Mutt (2023).
Sophie Hearn as Isabelle
DOB: Not available
Sophie Hearn is an up-and-coming actress, with notable appearances in both independent films and television series.
Role in the Movie: Sophie plays Isabelle, a character who plays a key role in Lionel’s exploration of his personal and emotional growth.
What to Expect: A compelling, emotional performance that challenges Lionel’s outlook on life.
Favorite Activities: Sophie enjoys dancing and painting.
Notable Works: The Life (2015).
Jadé Porciatti as Oxford Student
DOB: 2001
Jadé Porciatti is an emerging actress known for her captivating performances in both theater and independent films.
Role in the Movie: Jadé plays an Oxford Student, contributing to the academic atmosphere of the movie and helping develop Lionel’s intellectual journey.
What to Expect: A subtle performance that adds depth to the educational setting of the story.
Favorite Activities: Jadé enjoys photography and traveling.
Notable Works: Intervention (2024).
FAQ – The History of Sound 2025
Is The History of Sound based on a true story?
While The History of Sound is based on a short story by Ben Shattuck, it is a fictional account inspired by historical events and personal experiences.
Where can I watch The History of Sound?
The History of Sound will be available in select theaters and on streaming platforms upon release.
What genre is The History of Sound?
The History of Sound is a drama film with elements of historical fiction and coming-of-age storytelling.
Why is The History of Sound rated R?
The film has been rated R for its mature themes, intense emotional content, and some language. It deals with complex subjects such as war and personal loss.
Conclusion
The History of Sound (2025) promises to be an evocative and emotionally powerful film that explores the profound connection between memory, love, and the art of preserving history through sound.
With its compelling performances by a talented cast, led by Paul Mescal and Josh O’Connor, this film invites audiences to reflect on the human side of wartime experiences.
Directed by Oliver Hermanus, it brings Ben Shattuck’s poignant short story to life, offering a delicate blend of historical storytelling and deeply personal emotions.
Expect The History of Sound to resonate with viewers long after the credits roll.