The Sounding

The Sounding

Year: 2020

Runtime: 93 min

Language: english

DramaMystery

In the isolation of a Maine coast isle, Liv's silence shatters as she crafts a unique language from Shakespeare's verses. But when a neurologist, determined to safeguard her, commits her to a psychiatric hospital, Liv's defiance knows no bounds, threatening to entrap her forever in a struggle for self-expression and liberation.

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Timeline & Setting – The Sounding (2020)
Explore the full timeline and setting of The Sounding (2020). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

The film is set in a contemporary time period, reflecting modern-day societal norms and expectations. The issues of mental health and individual expression are crucial in today's world, making the story relevant to current discussions about autonomy and conformity.

Location

Remote island off the coast of Maine

The movie takes place on a tranquil and secluded island off the coast of Maine, known for its natural beauty and isolation. This setting serves as a backdrop for Liv's unique journey of self-discovery and resistance against societal norms. The island allows for a deep exploration of the characters’ complexities and their relationships.

🏝️ Island 🌲 Nature

Last Updated: May 04, 2025 at 18:44

Main Characters – The Sounding (2020)
Meet the key characters of The Sounding (2020), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Liv (Catherine Eaton)

Liv is a complex character who has lived in silence for most of her life, using gestures to communicate. Following her grandfather's death, she begins to speak in Shakespearean phrases, leading to both discovery and conflict. Her journey embodies the struggle between individual expression and societal expectation.

🗣️ Silence 🎭 Complexity 🌟 Discovery

Lionel (Harris Yulin)

Lionel is Liv's grandfather and a retired neuropsychiatrist who has devoted his life to protecting her from harm. His death marks a turning point in Liv's life, as she starts to navigate her autonomy. Lionel's character represents the love, care, and challenges of guiding someone through their own identity.

👴 Caregiver 💔 Loss 🌱 Protection

Michael (Teddy Sears)

Michael is a neuropsychiatrist and a friend of Lionel, who becomes concerned about Liv's newfound ability to speak. Despite his good intentions, he struggles with his role as both a protector and an enforcer of societal norms, complicating his relationship with Liv. His character embodies the conflict between care and control.

⚖️ Conflict 🤔 Concern 🙅‍♂️ Control

Last Updated: May 04, 2025 at 18:44

Major Themes – The Sounding (2020)
Explore the central themes of The Sounding (2020), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

🌊 Individuality

The film delves into the theme of individuality, showcasing Liv's struggle for self-expression against societal constraints. As she transitions from silence to speaking Shakespearean phrases, her unique form of communication challenges the expectations of those around her. This theme emphasizes the importance of understanding and accepting differences in expression.

🧠 Mental Health

Mental health is a significant theme in the film, as Liv’s behavior raises concerns for those who wish to label her experience. The narrative critiques the tendency to pathologize individuality, showcasing the fine line between mental wellness and societal definitions of normalcy. Liv’s resistance to conformity highlights the struggles faced by those navigating mental health challenges.

📜 Communication

Communication is central to Liv's journey, portrayed through her initial silence and subsequent Shakespearean dialogue. The film questions traditional methods of communication, emphasizing that expression can transcend spoken language. It highlights the diverse ways people convey thoughts and emotions, suggesting that understanding goes beyond mere words.

Last Updated: May 04, 2025 at 18:44

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