‘The History of Sound’ Brings Tender Queer Romance to the Big Screen This September

On September 12, 2025, the historical romantic drama ‘The History of Sound’ will arrive in theaters across the United States, promising audiences a moving reflection on queer love, memory, and music in early 20th-century America. Directed by Oliver Hermanus and adapted from Ben Shattuck’s acclaimed short story, the film has garnered significant attention since its world premiere at the 78th Cannes Film Festival, where it was nominated for the prestigious Palme d’Or .

Set in the years following World War I, ‘The History of Sound’ centers on Lionel (Paul Mescal) and David (Josh O’Connor), two young men who meet at the Boston Music Conservatory in 1917. Their mutual passion for music soon develops into a romantic bond that persists despite the upheavals of war and shifting social landscapes. After David’s return from military service, the pair embark on a journey through rural Maine to collect and record folk songs for the university where David once taught, immersing themselves in the voices and stories of their countrymen .

The film’s cast also features Chris Cooper as the older Lionel, alongside supporting performances from Molly Price, Raphael Sbarge, and Hadley Robinson . Both Mescal and O’Connor have been praised for their nuanced portrayals, bringing emotional depth and authenticity to a story that explores the ambiguity and resilience of queer relationships in a less accepting era .

The History of Sound’ stands out not only as a poignant romance but also as a vital addition to the canon of queer historical films. Through the lens of Lionel and David’s relationship, the film grapples with themes of memory, longing, and the search for belonging—common threads in LGBTQ+ narratives, particularly those set against the backdrop of times marked by social constraint and silence .

Director Oliver Hermanus, known for his sensitive approach to LGBTQ+ storytelling, has shaped a narrative that is both intimate and expansive. By rooting the characters’ romance in the real-world effort of documenting American folk music, the film foregrounds the importance of preserving marginalized voices—an idea that resonates deeply with queer audiences who have long sought to protect and celebrate their own histories .

Following its Cannes premiere, ‘The History of Sound’ received critical acclaim, with reviewers highlighting its “beautiful and tender” portrayal of romance and its evocative use of music as both theme and metaphor . The film’s nomination for the Palme d’Or further cements its standing as a significant cinematic achievement .

For LGBTQ+ viewers, the film’s arrival is especially meaningful. In recent years, audiences have called for more representation of queer stories that move beyond trauma and focus instead on the complexities and joys of love and connection. ‘The History of Sound’ answers that call, offering a narrative where queer romance is central, celebrated, and historically grounded .

The release of ‘The History of Sound’ comes at a time when queer visibility in mainstream cinema remains a vital issue. Its R rating and limited release underscore ongoing challenges for LGBTQ+ films in reaching broader audiences, but its critical recognition and the high profile of its leads suggest a growing appetite for such stories .

With its careful attention to historical detail, moving performances, and affirming narrative, ‘The History of Sound’ is poised to become a touchstone for queer cinema in 2025 and beyond. As it opens in theaters this September, it invites LGBTQ+ viewers and allies alike to celebrate a rich chapter in both queer and cinematic history.