The Sounding

The Sounding is an independent dramatic film released in 2017, directed and co-written by Catherine Eaton, who also stars in the film as the main character, Liv. The movie explores themes of communication, identity, and mental health, and takes place on a remote island off the coast of Maine.

Liv is a young woman who has lived on the island her entire life, secluded from the rest of society. She refuses to speak or communicate with anyone, even her grandfather (played by Harris Yulin), who is her only family member and caregiver. However, Liv does communicate through Shakespearean verse, reciting lines from various plays whenever she feels the need to express herself.

The film begins with Liv's grandfather bringing a doctor, Michael (played by Teddy Sears), to the island to help Liv with a sudden medical issue. Michael is initially skeptical of Liv's ability to communicate through Shakespearean verse, and thinks that she may be faking her condition. However, as he spends more time with Liv, he begins to understand her unique way of communication and becomes fascinated by her.

As Michael and Liv spend more time together, they begin to develop a close bond, despite their vastly different backgrounds and worldviews. Michael encourages Liv to explore her own identity and express herself in a way that feels authentic to her, rather than simply relying on the words of Shakespeare. Liv, in turn, challenges Michael to question his own beliefs and stay true to himself, even when it goes against societal norms.

Throughout the film, Liv's mental state is also explored in depth. It becomes clear that her refusal to speak is tied to deeper emotional trauma and a fear of being misunderstood. Through her interactions with Michael, Liv gradually learns to confront her fears and face her past.

Overall, The Sounding is a thought-provoking movie that delves into complex themes of communication, identity, and mental health. The film's use of Shakespearean verse adds an extra layer of depth and nuance to the story, and the performances by the three main actors are all nuanced and engaging. While the movie may not be for everyone due to its slower pacing and introspective tone, viewers who appreciate character-driven dramas will find much to appreciate here.