The Slow Burn is the New Blockbuster: Why Nuance is Winning in a Peak TV Era
The critical divide surrounding Oliver Hermanus’s The History of Sound – labeled everything from a “cinematic romance for the ages” to “Brokeback Mountain on sedatives” – isn’t just about a film. It’s a bellwether for a significant shift in audience expectations and a growing appetite for cinematic experiences that prioritize emotional depth over explosive spectacle. While blockbuster franchises continue to dominate box office numbers, a counter-trend is emerging: a preference for slower, more contemplative storytelling, particularly within the LGBTQ+ genre, and a willingness to embrace ambiguity.
The Rise of the ‘Uncomfortable’ Romance
The initial reaction to The History of Sound, with its 70% rating on Rotten Tomatoes and mixed critical reception, highlights this tension. Critics like Owen Gleiberman of Variety found it lacking compared to the raw emotional power of Brokeback Mountain, deeming it “listless.” However, others, such as Stephanie Zacharek of Time, praised its “polished texture” and “landscape of longing,” recognizing a subtle beauty in its deliberate pacing. This divergence isn’t a flaw; it’s a reflection of a diversifying cinematic landscape.
For years, LGBTQ+ representation in film often centered on stories of struggle, repression, and tragic outcomes. While these narratives remain important, audiences are increasingly seeking stories that simply *are* – romances that aren’t defined by societal obstacles, but by the complexities of human connection. David Rooney of The Hollywood Reporter rightly points out that The History of Sound distinguishes itself by its “absence of uncertainty and, mostly, shame,” offering a refreshing portrayal of an enduring connection. This shift mirrors a broader cultural movement towards greater acceptance and visibility, allowing for more nuanced and celebratory depictions of queer love.
Beyond the Spectacle: The Appeal of Deliberate Pacing
The criticism leveled at the film’s “languid pace” is crucial. We’ve become conditioned to a relentless barrage of stimuli in modern cinema. Fast cuts, constant action, and predictable plot points are the norm. The History of Sound deliberately rejects this formula, demanding patience and rewarding attentive viewers with a more immersive and emotionally resonant experience. This isn’t a new phenomenon; the success of films like Past Lives (2023) demonstrates a growing audience for films that prioritize atmosphere and character development over plot-driven narratives.
This trend is linked to the rise of “slow TV” and the increasing popularity of long-form content. Audiences are becoming accustomed to investing time in stories that unfold gradually, allowing for deeper emotional engagement. The success of streaming services has also contributed, providing a platform for more experimental and unconventional storytelling. As a result, the traditional blockbuster model – reliant on spectacle and instant gratification – is facing increasing competition from films that prioritize emotional authenticity and artistic vision.
Oscar Implications and the Future of Queer Cinema
The film’s current Oscar odds, particularly its distant No. 18 ranking for Best Adapted Screenplay, underscore the challenges faced by films that deviate from the established Oscar playbook. However, the strong performances from Paul Mescal and Josh O’Connor, both facing competition from their own critically acclaimed projects, highlight the talent driving this shift. The fact that the film is even in the conversation demonstrates a growing willingness to recognize and reward films that prioritize artistry over commercial appeal.
Looking ahead, we can expect to see more LGBTQ+ films that embrace nuance, complexity, and deliberate pacing. The demand for authentic representation and emotionally resonant storytelling will continue to grow, challenging filmmakers to move beyond tired tropes and explore new creative possibilities. This isn’t about abandoning action or spectacle altogether; it’s about expanding the definition of what constitutes a compelling cinematic experience. Slow cinema, once a niche genre, is poised to become increasingly mainstream, influencing everything from independent dramas to larger-scale productions.
The debate surrounding The History of Sound isn’t just about one film; it’s about the future of cinema. It’s a signal that audiences are ready for stories that challenge them, that reward patience, and that offer a more nuanced and authentic reflection of the human experience. What kind of stories will rise to meet this demand?
