Sound of Metal

THE GIST: Ruben is a heavy-metal drummer who suddenly loses most of his hearing. Freaked out, he seeks medical advice, but is told the loss that's already occurred is permanent. This throws his life, his career, and his relationship with his singer-girlfriend into upheaval. The fact that he's a former addict doesn't help things.

Sound of Metal is a really good movie that received six Oscar nominations, with nods for Picture, Lead Actor (for Riz Ahmed), Supporting Actor (Paul Raci), Screenplay, Sound, and Editing.

Olivia Cooke is also very good, and she and Ahmed have great chemistry together.

Ahmed, whom I first discovered in The Night Of, is astounding in the breadth of emotions he lays bare on the screen.

THE BOTTOM LINE: A touching story about a character with a big heart but who's rough around the edges. Aurally, it's an incredible experience.

Grade: 8.5