“Sound of Metal”

(USA)

Metacritic (8/10), Rotten Tomatoes (****)

When our dreams and the life we know evaporate in an instant, we may find it next to impossible to adjust, as is the case in this engaging drama about a heavy metal drummer who is faced with losing his hearing. While this offering has a little trouble finding its footing at times, it nevertheless takes audiences through the challenges associated with hearing loss and a recovering addict’s struggle to maintain sobriety in the wake of profound change. The film also skillfully delves into matters of adaptability and self-acceptance, as well as learning how to see “disabilities” as differences, not handicaps, qualities with the potential to give us new and unconsidered perspectives on life. All of this is brought to life through the fine performances of Riz Ahmed, Olivia Cooke and Paul Raci, as well as an inventive sound design that truly makes an impact on viewers. One of the year’s best.