Watch Making Noise Quietly

Making Noise Quietly is a drama film from 2019 that consists of three short stories, each set in different times and locations. The movie revolves around the themes of war, grief, and human connection. The first story is set during World War II, in the English countryside. A young conscientious objector, Oliver, seeks refuge in the cottage of an elderly woman, Janet, who is still mourning the death of her son in the first world war. As they bond over the shared experience of grief and loss, their ideological differences are also explored, making for a poignant, thought-provoking story.

The second story is set in Northern Ireland during the Troubles, in which a republican activist, Richard, and a British soldier, Arthur, find themselves in a room together after Arthur is injured in an explosion. As they try to navigate their differences and find common ground, their conversation takes on a cathartic and transformative quality.

The final story is set in Germany, in the aftermath of the Falklands War. A scientist, Alan, visits his sister, Barbara, who is married to a German man, Helmut. As the past traumas of their family resurface, they must also confront their conflicting views on the war, with Helmut having served in the German army during the conflict. As with the previous stories, Making Noise Quietly is a masterful study of the complex relationships that can exist between people who have experienced trauma.

The cast of Making Noise Quietly is exceptional, with standout performances from Matthew Tennyson, Luke Thompson, and Barbara Marten. Tennyson, in particular, is a revelation as the tender, empathetic Oliver, who is struggling to reconcile his pacifist beliefs with the reality of war. Thompson, meanwhile, perfectly captures the bluster and vulnerability of a soldier grappling with the morality of his actions.

The cinematography, by Annika Summerson, is also a highlight of the film. The lush, green landscapes of the English countryside are captured with a vividness that makes them feel like characters in their own right, while the stark industrial landscapes of Northern Ireland and the bleak cityscapes of Germany contribute to the sense of alienation and unease that permeates the stories.

Overall, Making Noise Quietly is a moving, thought-provoking film that explores important themes with delicacy and nuance. While it may not appeal to audiences looking for a fast-paced action movie, those who appreciate well-crafted storytelling and complex characters will find much to admire here.