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Is there an actor today whos more interesting to look at than Riz Ahmed?
Hes not broad, exactly.
Its more like hes a language unto himself.
It comes on suddenly the sound drops out from his surroundings, and voices become muffled.
Ruben reaches for his ears, his eyes dart around, and we see abject terror on his face.
And just like that, we are completely locked into this mans gathering existential panic.
After all, Ruben is a musician; at risk might be his very identity.
Sound of Metalconveys Rubens despair without sensationalizing it.
Thats not, to be fair, much of a story on paper.
(And in truth, theres a bit more to it than that, which I wont spoil.)
ButSound of Metalisnt a story movie.
The movie may be stylized, but its not ostentatious.
Its universe feels lived-in and authentic; most of the excellent supporting cast are deaf themselves.
An actor like Ahmed becomes invaluable in such an arrangement.
(Also, when did Ahmed get so ripped?)
Once that psychic orderliness is upended, he doesnt know what to do.
His surroundings become clearer and warmer maybe not orderly anymore, but more inviting and real.
His tense body relaxes.
Those big eyes, sometimes terrified, sometimes terrifying, start to glow with compassion.
Were watching a new man being born.
Thats the heartbreaking question with which this beautiful film leaves us.
