‘Phenomenally heartbreaking’ drama with 97% score now free to stream | Films | Entertainment

Oscar-winning drama Sound of Metal, starring Riz Ahmed, is now available for streaming on BBC iPlayer.

Originally released in 2019, the film bagged Academy Awards for Best Film Editing and Best Sound. In addition to these accolades, the musical drama was also nominated for Best Picture and Best Original Screenplay.

The plot revolves around Ruben Stone (played by Ahmed), a punk drummer who starts experiencing hearing loss. When warned by a specialist that his condition will only deteriorate, Ruben fears his career might be over, reports the Mirror.

His girlfriend Lou (portrayed by Olivia Cooke) worries that Ruben, a recovering heroin addict, may relapse and checks him into a sober community for people with hearing impairments.

Community founder Joe (played by Paul Raci) then helps Ruben navigate his new life. Both actors were lauded for their performances, with Ahmed receiving an Oscar nomination for Best Lead Actor and Raci earning a nod for Best Supporting Actor.

Although neither won their respective categories, Ahmed clinched his first Oscar the following year for writing the live-action short film The Long Goodbye.

Darius Marder directed the film and co-wrote the script with his brother Abraham Marder and Derek Cianfrance.

The film was highly praised and boasts a remarkable 97% score on Rotten Tomatoes.

Critics on the film-rating website lauded: “An evocative look at the experiences of the deaf community, Sound of Metal is brought to life by Riz Ahmed’s passionate performance.”

While one viewer wrote: “Haunting and revealing and human,” and another raved: “Phenomenally heart-breaking. Riz Ahmed and Olivia Cooke are to die for.”

Another viewer, who has experienced hearing loss, shared their perspective. “As someone who has severe hearing loss caused by industrial noise, this film gives a very realistic look at how hearing loss affects the individual,” they penned.

“Riz Ahmed’s acting as Ruben the drummer is superb. Have a box of tissues handy,” added the same fan.

A final viewer proclaimed: “Riz Ahmed was robbed of an Oscar, he blew away the other actors. Amazing movie and performance.”

Sound of Metal is streaming for free on BBC iPlayer. The film is also available to watch on Prime Video.