A Glimpse Into a Forbidden Love
Get ready for what might be the most anticipated queer film of the year. New promotional portraits for The History of Sound have been released, featuring stars Paul Mescal (Aftersun, Normal People) and Josh O'Connor (The Crown, Challengers). Shot by celebrated photographer Ruven Afanador, the black-and-white images capture a profound intimacy and a quiet sense of longing that perfectly sets the stage for this historical romance.
What is 'The History of Sound' About?
Directed by Oliver Hermanus, the film is an adaptation of Ben Shattuck's award-winning short story. The plot follows two young men, Lionel (Mescal) and David (O'Connor), during the tumultuous period of World War I. They embark on a journey across the American landscape to record the lives, voices, and music of their countrymen. In a world fractured by war, they discover a deep, transformative connection with each other—a love that must exist in the quiet moments, away from the judgment of society.
The film has already generated significant buzz after its premiere at the Cannes Film Festival, praised for its sensitive portrayal of a queer relationship in a period where such love was often erased from history.
Artistry in Black and White
The new portraits by Ruven Afanador are more than just movie promotion; they are works of art in their own right. Known for his stark, emotionally resonant photography, Afanador captures Mescal and O'Connor in moments of vulnerability. The images are devoid of colour, focusing instead on the subtle interactions between the two actors—a shared glance, a gentle touch, a comfortable silence. There's a palpable chemistry that suggests both the sweetness of their budding romance and the underlying sadness of their circumstances.
These photos don't just sell a movie; they evoke a feeling. They tap into a long history of queer stories marked by both profound love and inevitable loss, but they do so with a tenderness that feels both authentic and respectful. For the LGBTQ+ community, it’s a powerful preview of a story that promises to honour a piece of our hidden history.
The History of Sound was released in U.S. theaters on September 12, 2025, with a European release date expected to be announced soon. To see more of Ruven Afanador's stunning portraits, you can check this link out.
