Ears on the Big Screen: Hearing Loss in Cinema
As the winter cold draws in it’s time to get snuggled up and stuck into a good movie or new series! Hearing loss and deafness have more recently become central themes in film - and it’s easy to see why. The latest report from the World Health Organisation cites noise exposure as the second most important cause of ill health in Western Europe. With over 20% of our population exposed to harmful noise levels, the repercussions not just on hearing health but also mental, cardiovascular, and metabolic health, are substantial. Exploring these themes in media allows audiences to experience the rich complexities of life with limited or damaged hearing through the characters’ eyes - and in some cases this provides a stark warning about how important it is to preserve our audiological health. From real-life triumphs to fictional stories of struggle and resilience, these films raise awareness about the challenges and nuances of hearing loss. They emphasize the importance of hearing protection, hearing aids, and inclusivity. Here, we dive into three memorable films that illustrate various facets of hearing loss on screen and why they are essential viewing.
(NB. We’re not going to delve into the dangerous volume levels at the cinema nowadays, and don’t be afraid to ask staff to lower the volume if your finding it uncomfortable!)
1. Young Woman and the Sea: Trudy Ederle’s Battle with Hearing Loss
Trudy Ederle’s story in Young Woman and the Sea is one of pure grit. As the first woman to swim across the English Channel, she defied not only the elements but also her own hearing loss, which was caused by complications following a bout of measles. The film beautifully portrays Trudy's tenacity in pursuing her dream despite her hearing impairment, proving that even physical limitations can't hold back true determination.
This story also highlights a crucial point about hearing health: the importance of protecting your ears, especially when swimming. Frequent exposure to water can increase the risk of ear infections, which can exacerbate hearing problems. Whether you’re a swimmer like Trudy or just love a dip, consider investing in custom-fit earplugs for water activities to safeguard your hearing.
Gertrude Ederle, Queen of the Waves, subject of biographical film Young Woman and the Sea
2. CODA: A New Take on Deafness and Music
The 2021 film CODA (Child Of Deaf Adults) offers a fresh and emotionally powerful exploration of life within the deaf community. The movie follows Ruby, a hearing teenager who dreams of becoming a singer, all whilst being the only member of her family who can hear. CODA celebrates both deaf culture and the profound connection that sign language provides between deaf and hearing family members.
The film beautifully depicts the challenges of balancing personal dreams with family responsibilities, particularly when communication barriers exist. For audiologists, it serves as a moving reminder of the importance of inclusivity in audiological practice. The use of sign language and the authentic representation of deaf culture emphasize the value of accessible communication methods for individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing. As we watch Ruby struggle to balance her passion for music with her family obligations, the film encourages viewers to consider how society can become more inclusive for those with hearing impairments.
3. Sound of Metal: The Musician’s Struggle
Amazon Prime’s Sound of Metal shines a spotlight on sudden hearing loss through the life of Reuben, a heavy metal drummer whose world is turned upside down after losing his hearing while on tour. The film deeply explores the emotional stages Reuben goes through — from shock and denial to eventual acceptance — as he tries to adapt to his new reality.
Sound of Metal addresses a crucial but often overlooked issue: the vulnerability of musicians to hearing loss. Noise-induced hearing loss is a common occupational hazard for musicians, and the film's narrative underscores the importance of protecting one's ears in loud environments. Whether you’re a live performer or a regular concert-goer, custom-moulded hearing protection can prevent long-term damage to your hearing. The movie also delves into the limitations of cochlear implants (CI), highlighting how they don’t completely restore natural hearing, but instead offer a new way of perceiving sound. This mirrors the real-world need for clear expectations when patients consider CI as a solution.
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The Small Screen: Alf Stewart’s Journey in Home & Away
Home & Away tackled the topic of hearing loss with a storyline surrounding Alf Stewart, one of the show’s most beloved characters. His struggle with accepting hearing aids mirrors the reality that many face — denial often precedes acknowledgment of hearing loss. Alf's journey provides an important takeaway: modern hearing aids are discreet and effective, vastly improving the quality of life for those who use them. It’s time to shed the stigma and embrace the technology that can bring back the sounds we miss.
Alf Stewart from Home & Away, skeptical of accepting his need for hearing aids (at first!)
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References
• Young Woman and the Sea (2023). Disney+.
• CODA (2021). Apple TV.
• Sound of Metal (2019). Amazon Prime.
• Home & Away. Channel Seven Network.
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This blog post is part of our ongoing series that highlights hearing loss in popular media. If you’re interested in learning more about how to protect your hearing or the latest in hearing aid technology, feel free to get in touch with Southwest Hearing today.
