Oscars 2021: Ranking The Best Picture Nominees From Worst To Best
4. Sound Of Metal
Sound of Metal is an unrelenting and visceral character study of a heavy metal drummer who suddenly loses his hearing. Riz Ahmed gives a phenomenal performance as Ruben who struggles through a variety of emotions as his entire way of life alters overnight without warning.
As Ruben has to come to terms with his new circumstances, he enters into a rehabilitation facility for deaf addicts in which he struggles between the life he had (and wants again) and the new and welcoming community he suddenly finds himself a part of.
Ahmed reaches a career high with his work here. He is asked to go to some extreme emotional lengths and he rises to the occasion in an incredibly impressive performance. It is a shame that he is caught up in one of the most competitive and high quality Best Actor races in recent years and isn't likely to see any love on Oscars night.
Sound of Metal is a necessary film that raises awareness and brings light to an often unseen issue with an incredibly authentic portrayal of deafness and the issues that can come with or without implants. For its mature and sensitive representation of the issues it explores, it is one of the most important films of the year.