Riz Ahmed is undoubtedly one of the most talented actors today. After making his acting debut with The Road to Guantanamo (2006), the British-Pakistani actor appeared in several indie projects, including Shifty (2008), Four Lions (2010), The Reluctant Fundamentalist (2012), and many more. Dan Gilroy’s Nightcrawler (2014) offered him his breakout role, in which he starred opposite Jake Gyllenhaal. But he gained global recognition with his outstanding performance in Sound of Metal (2019). That’s why we recommend you all to watch this sensational drama, helmed by Darius Marder.
The film revolves around Ruben Stone, a blossoming drummer and recovering addict. However, his life turns upside down after he starts losing his hearing. This scenario forces him to leave his band and join a community retreat for deaf people. During his time there, he learns how to control his warring feelings and love himself as a deaf individual. But deep down, he misses his old life of rock and roll.
Treasuring a hard-hitting story about a profound loss, Sound of Metal is a breathtaking and compelling take on people dealing with deafness. And Ahmed’s knockout performance, supported by a fantastic cast, helps this drama to soar high. As for the film’s direction, Marder expertly brings out the protagonist’s frustration and emotionality about his hearing loss. His project could have gone wrong in many ways. But it lands perfectly.
The movie was nominated for six categories at the 93rd Academy Awards and bagged two Oscars for Best Film Editing and Best Sound. Riz Ahmed and Paul Raci were also nominated for Best Actor and Best Supporting Actor, respectively.
Apart from Ahmed and Raci, Sound of Metal stars Olivia Cooke, Lauren Ridloff, Mathieu Amalric, and Michael Tow. You can stream it on Prime Video.