Josh O’Connor and Paul Mescal Share Intimate Connection in “The History of Sound”
In their new film “The History of Sound,” actors Josh O’Connor and Paul Mescal bring to life a tender, passionate story set against the backdrop of World War I. During a recent Q&A session at the Telluride Film Festival, the pair candidly discussed their on-set experiences, particularly an intimate scene that showcased their commitment to authenticity. O’Connor, 35, revealed how they maintained character immersion during filming, describing a vulnerable moment that highlighted the genuine chemistry between them. When O’Connor mentioned a particularly intimate detail involving spit dribbling down his face while Mescal waited beneath him, Mescal playfully added, “If you clipped this without sound, it would be…” letting the audience’s imagination fill in the rest. This lighthearted exchange demonstrates the comfort and trust the actors developed working together, essential elements for portraying the deep connection between their characters Lionel Worthing (Mescal) and David White (O’Connor).
The film, which premiered to positive reviews at the Cannes Film Festival in May and hits theaters on September 12, follows two men who journey through rural Maine collecting folk songs in the aftermath of World War I. As they document the musical heritage of their countrymen, they simultaneously navigate their growing feelings for each other. This poignant narrative explores not only the healing power of music but also the complexity of love during a time when such relationships faced significant societal barriers. The historical setting provides a rich canvas for examining themes of trauma, connection, and artistic expression, while the central romance unfolds with delicate authenticity. Critics have particularly praised the chemistry between O’Connor and Mescal, noting how their performances capture both the tentative vulnerability and passionate intensity of their characters’ evolving relationship.
Mescal shared with Deadline how his real-life friendship with O’Connor enhanced their on-screen dynamic, creating something truly special between them. “I think that we knew each other very well, that we were comfortable, but also we got to build mine and Josh’s relationship in real time with Lionel’s and David’s,” the “Gladiator II” actor explained. Despite the heaviness of the material, Mescal described going to work with director Oliver Hermanus (referred to affectionately as “Ollie”) as reminiscent of “Friday after school going to your friend’s house” – a childlike excitement that infused their creative process with genuine joy. This comfortable rapport translated beautifully to screen, with Mescal emphasizing that “the chemistry, I suppose, is real, it is true.” Their off-camera friendship allowed them to approach intimate scenes with mutual trust and respect, creating moments that feel authentic rather than performative.
The musical aspects of “The History of Sound” presented both challenges and opportunities for the actors. Mescal, who has been Oscar-nominated for his previous work, admitted that singing wasn’t something that “instantly naturally” came to him, though it wasn’t intimidating either. He approached the musical elements with the same thoughtfulness he brings to his acting, explaining, “It isn’t about performance or showmanship, it’s about connecting to the song, which is connecting to the words, which is ultimately my job as an actor.” This perspective reveals Mescal’s commitment to emotional authenticity above technical perfection – understanding that his character’s relationship to music is deeply intertwined with his emotional journey. The folk songs collected throughout the film serve as both plot devices and emotional touchstones, allowing the characters to connect with each other and process their war experiences through the healing medium of music.
This role marks just the beginning of Mescal’s musical journey on screen, as he’s set to portray Paul McCartney in Sam Mendes’ ambitious upcoming Beatles project. When asked about the difference between singing in “The History of Sound” and playing the legendary musician, Mescal reflected, “I feel like they’re very different. I’ve sang in films before, and each time it feels very different and I assume, playing the great Paul McCartney’s got to feel very different again.” The Beatles project, described as “A Four-Film Cinematic Event” and scheduled for release in April 2028, will feature four interconnected movies, each focused on one member of the iconic band. Alongside Mescal as McCartney, the impressive cast includes Barry Keoghan as Ringo Starr, Harris Dickinson as John Lennon, and Joseph Quinn as George Harrison – a gathering of some of the most exciting young actors working today.
“The History of Sound” represents a significant addition to the growing catalog of thoughtful LGBTQ+ period films that explore queer love stories within their historical contexts. Director Oliver Hermanus has crafted a visually stunning and emotionally resonant film that allows O’Connor and Mescal to showcase their considerable talents while telling a story that feels both timeless and timely. As the characters travel through rural America capturing the voices and stories of ordinary people, they simultaneously discover their own voices and the courage to love authentically despite societal constraints. The film’s exploration of how art – specifically music – can preserve human experiences across generations adds another layer of depth to this already rich narrative. With stellar performances, beautiful cinematography, and a touching story about connection in the aftermath of trauma, “The History of Sound” promises to be a moving cinematic experience when it reaches wider audiences this September.
