Directed by
Darius Marder
Made by
Amazon Studios
Discover the intricate plot of Sound of Metal (2020). From unexpected twists to emotional highs and lows, this detailed summary breaks down every moment to give you a deeper understanding of the film’s story.
Ruben, a passionate drummer of the metal duo Blackgammon alongside his girlfriend, Lou, embarks on a tumultuous journey. Living in an RV as they travel the country for performances, Ruben’s world is upended when he begins to experience sudden hearing loss. His desperate quest for answers leads him to a pharmacy, where the pharmacist directs him to a doctor. The hearing test reveals a staggering reality: Ruben can only comprehend about 20-30 percent of speech, and his condition is set to worsen rapidly. Though cochlear implants could potentially restore his hearing, their exorbitant cost and lack of insurance coverage pose significant obstacles.
The doctor insists that to preserve what little hearing he has left, Ruben must avoid loud noises and undergo further evaluations after some time. Yet, despite this grim prognosis, he is unyielding in his desire to continue performing. When Lou learns of his condition, she is adamant that they should stop their gigs for his safety. However, Ruben’s determination prevails, even as Lou remains anxious about his sobriety, given his background as a recovering addict.
They reach out to Hector, Ruben’s sponsor from Narcotics Anonymous, who finds a sanctuary in a rural community for deaf individuals controlled by Joe, a recovering alcoholic who lost his hearing in the Vietnam War. As he prepares to leave Lou behind—since she cannot stay with him there—he remains fixated on getting cochlear implants. Ultimately, Lou’s concern for Ruben’s well-being prompts her to follow him back to the community.
Once in Joe’s care, Ruben begins to immerse himself in his new surroundings. He engages with the other residents, participates in meetings, and gradually adapitates to his life without sound. He not only learns American Sign Language but also bonds with Diane, a teacher, and the children in her class. Through teaching the kids basic drumming, Ruben finds a sense of purpose and connection amidst the silence, while Joe encourages him to embrace this tranquility.
As the church supports his stay, Joe proposes a more permanent arrangement, prompting Ruben to contemplate his future. Struggling with his identity, Ruben checks in on Lou occasionally, only to find she is pursuing her music in Paris. Selling his instruments and RV for the cochlear implant surgery, Ruben reaches a critical juncture. He requests to stay in the community for a few weeks until the implants activate, but Joe denies this, steadfast in the belief that deafness is not a handicap.
When the implants are finally activated, Ruben experiences sound anew, though not in a way he anticipated. Plagued by frustrating feedback, the joyous sounds become irritants as he flies to Belgium to reunite with Lou, now living a different life with her father, Richard. Welcomed by Richard, Ruben attends a gathering where Lou performs alongside her father, but the sound of the implants prevents him from fully enjoying the moment.
Amid reassurances about their shared past, Ruben and Lou discuss the future of their musical aspirations. However, it becomes clear that their time apart has changed them both. As dawn breaks, Ruben makes the poignant decision to leave quietly while Lou sleeps, overwhelmed by the incessant feedback from the cochlear implants. He retreats outside, ultimately choosing to disconnect from the noise and embrace the peaceful silence he once feared.
Track the key events of Sound of Metal (2020) with a comprehensive timeline. Perfect for understanding the sequence of major plot points, this feature offers clarity on how the story unfolds.
Ruben and Lou on the Road
Ruben, a dedicated drummer, and his girlfriend Lou travel across the country as part of their metal duo, Blackgammon. Living in an RV, they enjoy the thrill of performing at various venues while sharing a deep passion for music.
Onset of Hearing Loss
Ruben's life takes a dramatic turn when he experiences sudden hearing loss. This alarming change prompts him to seek medical help, leading him to a pharmacy where he receives information about where to go next.
The Hearing Test
After visiting a doctor, Ruben undergoes a hearing test that unveils a harsh reality: he can only understand 20-30 percent of speech. The doctor informs him that his hearing is set to decline rapidly unless he takes immediate precautions.
The Dilemma of Cochlear Implants
The doctor discusses the possibility of cochlear implants, which could restore Ruben's hearing but come with a significant price tag. As Ruben grapples with the financial burden, he remains determined to continue performing despite the implications of his condition.
Lou's Concern
When Lou discovers Ruben's condition, she insists they stop performing for his safety. Her anxiety over Ruben's well-being intensifies, particularly because of his past struggles with addiction, creating tension between their desires.
Seeking Help from Hector
Ruben reaches out to Hector, his sponsor from Narcotics Anonymous, who introduces him to a community for deaf individuals. This rural sanctuary, led by Joe—a recovering alcoholic—promises a safe environment for Ruben amidst his challenges.
Lou's Sacrifice
As Ruben prepares to join the deaf community, he knows he must part ways with Lou. Despite his desire for cochlear implants, Lou’s deep concern for him brings her to decide to follow him and ensure he is safe.
Adapting to Silence
In Joe's care, Ruben immerses himself into a new lifestyle without sound. He learns American Sign Language and forms connections with other residents, including Diane and her students, finding a new sense of purpose through drumming.
Contemplating the Future
As the church supports his residency, Joe suggests a long-term stay for Ruben. This notion forces Ruben to reflect on his identity and what his future holds, especially as he checks in on Lou and sees her pursuing music in Paris.
Selling His Instruments
In a pivotal moment, Ruben sells his instruments and RV in order to afford the cochlear implant surgery. He realizes that he must make sacrifices to regain his hearing, even as he struggles with his sense of self.
Activation of the Implants
Once his cochlear implants are activated, Ruben is filled with anticipation, only to be met with unexpected auditory feedback. The sounds he yearned to reclaim become overwhelming, complicating his experiences upon reuniting with Lou.
Reunion with Lou
Ruben travels to Belgium to see Lou, who is now immersed in her music career alongside her father, Richard. Although he feels welcomed, the frustration of his new auditory experience hinders his ability to fully enjoy the moment.
Discussing the Future
During a nostalgic conversation, Ruben and Lou discuss their musical dreams and aspirations. However, it's evident that time apart has altered their relationship, leaving both uncertain about their future together.
The Silent Decision
As dawn approaches, Ruben chooses to quietly leave while Lou sleeps, overwhelmed by the incessant feedback from his cochlear implants. This heart-wrenching decision symbolizes his acceptance of silence and the realization of his new path.
Meet the characters that bring Sound of Metal (2020) to life. Dive into detailed profiles of the cast and their roles, exploring their motivations, relationships, and arcs within the story.
Ruben Stone (Riz Ahmed)
Ruben is a passionate and dedicated drummer whose life spirals after experiencing sudden hearing loss. His determination to continue performing reveals his resilience, but also exposes vulnerability as he grapples with addiction and identity. Throughout the film, he experiences profound personal growth while navigating the complexities of his relationship with Lou.
Lou (Olivia Cooke)
Lou is Ruben's supportive girlfriend and fellow musician. She exhibits deep concern for Ruben's well-being and sobriety, ultimately facing difficult decisions about their relationship. Her character highlights the sacrifices made in love and the challenges of supporting someone through a life-altering crisis.
Joe (Paul Raci)
Joe is a recovering alcoholic who runs the rural community for deaf individuals. A key figure in Ruben's journey, he encourages Ruben to embrace his new life without sound while emphasizing that deafness is not a limitation. Joe's wisdom and guidance provide crucial support to Ruben during a pivotal moment in his transformation.
Diane (Lauren Ridloff)
Diane is a teacher in the deaf community who plays a significant role in Ruben's adjustment to his new surroundings. Her warmth and kindness help Ruben find purpose through teaching and connecting with the children. Diane embodies the spirit of acceptance and growth within the community.
Uncover the settings of Sound of Metal (2020), from iconic locations to the time period that shapes its world. See how these elements add depth and context to the movie’s narrative.
Time period
The film does not specify a distinct time period, focusing instead on contemporary issues faced by individuals with hearing loss. Themes of addiction recovery and the challenges of living with disabilities resonate throughout the narrative.
Location
Various locations across the United States, Rural community for deaf individuals, Belgium, Paris
The movie takes place in various locations as Ruben and Lou travel across the United States in their RV for performances. A significant part of the film is set in a rural community for deaf individuals, which serves as a sanctuary for Ruben. Additionally, the story reaches Belgium where Ruben reconnects with Lou, highlighting the contrasts between their lives.
Explore the core themes of Sound of Metal (2020). From its commentary on social issues to its emotional undertones, delve into the deeper messages woven into the film’s story.
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Music & Silence
The theme of music and silence is central to the story, illustrating Ruben's struggle with his identity as a drummer amidst hearing loss. As he adapts to life without sound, the contrast between his past filled with music and his present solitude creates a poignant narrative about acceptance. The film explores how he finds purpose in silence and reconnects with his emotions.
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Identity & Transformation
Ruben's journey reflects a deep exploration of identity and transformation as he confronts his hearing loss. His initial determination to regain his former self clashes with the need to accept a new way of life. The film poignantly captures the internal conflict of a person struggling to redefine himself while facing significant life changes.
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Love & Sacrifice
The love between Ruben and Lou is challenged by adversity, showcasing the sacrifices they must make for one another's well-being. Lou's unwavering support contrasts with Ruben's relentless pursuit of his dreams, ultimately leading them to difficult choices. The film highlights the complexities of love in the face of hardship and change.
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