The Listeners, a limited series that first premiered at the Toronto Film Festival before airing on BBC One in, finally makes its way to Starz on June 12. This psychological drama, adapted from Jordan Tannahill’s novel, delves into the unsettling phenomenon of The Hum a low-frequency noise that only certain individuals can hear. The series is a testament to the power of Rebecca Hall’s acting prowess, who carries the show with a performance that is both subtle and intense.
The story revolves around Claire, an English teacher played by Hall, who begins to hear an inexplicable hum. Her journey to understand this phenomenon leads her to a support group of people who share her experience. The series is not just a mystery but a profound exploration of alienation, grief, and the human need for connection.
The Enigmatic Phenomenon of The Hum
The Hum is not just a plot device but a metaphor for the various forms of alienation that people experience. The series acknowledges a range of plausible explanations, from natural phenomena like infrasonic communication and Schumann resonances to more conspiratorial theories involving 5G. However, the show is less interested in providing answers and more focused on exploring what The Hum represents.
Claire’s initial perception of The Hum as a curse evolves as she meets others who view it as a gift. This shift in perspective is a central theme of the series, reflecting the different ways people cope with their unique experiences. The support group, led by Omar (Amr Waked) and Jo (Gayle Rankin), becomes a microcosm of various belief systems and coping mechanisms.
Rebecca Hall’s Tour de Force Performance
Rebecca Hall’s performance in The Listeners is a masterclass in subtle acting. Her ability to convey a range of emotions with the slightest facial expressions is evident in a remarkable five-second close-up where she is caught between laughter and tears. This moment encapsulates the quiet intensity that characterizes both her performance and the series as a whole.
Hall’s Claire is a complex character, torn between her past religious upbringing and her present secular life. Her journey is one of self-discovery and acceptance, as she navigates the challenges posed by The Hum. Hall’s nuanced portrayal makes Claire a relatable and compelling protagonist, even as the series delves into more abstract and ambiguous territory.
The Visual and Thematic Style of The Listeners
Directed by Janicza Bravo, The Listeners has a visual style that harks back to the simmering thrillers of the ’70s. The bold red title font, insinuating camera movements, and Devonté Hynes’ eerily ambient score all contribute to a mood of suspense and unease. Bravo’s direction complements Tannahill’s writing, creating a push and pull between the literal and the symbolic.
The series is thematically rich, exploring the hollow silence of virtual social spaces and the various forms of alienation that people experience. However, this richness can sometimes veer into vagueness, leaving viewers to draw their own conclusions. The series ends on a tantalizing but ambiguous note, which may frustrate some viewers but will satisfy others who appreciate its openness.
While the series may frustrate those looking for clear answers, it offers a profound exploration of isolation and the human need for connection. It is a show that will leave viewers thinking long after the final episode.
