The Listeners review: Surreal drama is not as far-fetched as you think

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4.0 out of 5 star rating

In “The Listeners,” there are multiple instances where an intense crowd experiences rapture while immersed in a subsonic vibration audible solely to them. At times like these, one might find oneself questioning, ‘What on earth is this I’m witnessing?’

In my opinion, the latest four-episode series truly pushes the boundaries of creativity and dreamlike quality, setting itself apart from many programs aired during primetime on BBC One. Yet, I believe it’s essential not to write it off as elitist or enigmatic. Instead, let’s embrace its innovative approach and unravel its intricacies together.

Instead, this narrative holds striking relevance to our present situation, as an ever-growing population seems to be abandoning connections with friends, relatives, and the broader community, seeking an intense escape into something significantly captivating.

Without a doubt, there are many perspectives on the occurrences depicted in “The Listeners.” Given my personal experience of having relatives swallowed up by the mysterious vortex of conspiracy theories, it’s hard not to think about that as I watch the events unfold.

As a movie lover, I find myself captivated by Rebecca Hall’s performance as Claire Kutty, a dedicated high school teacher, who one day is jolted by an unusual noise – a deep, pulsating hum that seems to elude the notice of those around her.

Apart from my student, Kyle (Ollie West), everyone else seems to be finding themselves pulled away from their studies due to the growing distraction caused by the ruckus. Instead, he appears to be drawn more and more into a mysterious circle of companionship, a kind of secret sanctuary for those affected by it all.

Claire and Kyle regularly attend this club, run by the New Age duo Omar (Amr Waked) and Jo (Gayle Rankin). This unique establishment values the hum and considers it a blessing, not a hassle, going so far as to exclude individuals who don’t appreciate its sound.

Over time, as their bonds and convictions strengthen within the group, they gradually drift away from cherished connections of the past, replaced instead by an altered perception of camaraderie.

While it may seem unbelievable to some spectators, The Listeners isn’t a work of fantasy – simply inquire from those who have witnessed loved ones being engulfed by the ominous depths of the internet.

The sound could be seen as reflecting the deep unease that numerous people have regarding the current condition of our planet, which is marked by escalating environmental disasters, increasing impoverishment, and deteriorating public facilities – all while an elite group continues to thrive more prosperously than ever.

Rather than tackling the true roots of these intertwined predicaments, fictitious conspiracy theories often steer a significant portion of the populace down unrelated or absurd detours, or into outright refusal of reality. This inadvertently results in feelings of isolation and confusion, while simultaneously shielding existing power structures from any potential challenges.

In a small world mirroring larger events, Claire and Kyle, grappling with apathy, puzzlement, and dread, opt instead to explore the ideas of Omar, Jo, and their diverse circle, rather than confront the source of their desolation directly.

In a nutshell, that interpretation is one possibility. Directors Janicza Bravo and Jordan Tannahill, who wrote the screenplay and also authored the book this series is adapted from, don’t make things overly clear or explicit. Instead, they prefer to keep things open-ended and shrouded in mystery.

In my opinion, I’m quite passionate about tackling the problem of conspiracy theories. At times, I’ve wished for a more direct approach, but there’s undeniably merit in handling such sensitive topics with a more subtle touch.

The narrative maintains an element of surprise, as it might lack mystery if it followed a rigid formula for brainwashing, instead, Bravo constructs intriguing and bewildering scenes throughout the series.

Suiting the name of the production, these scenes skillfully employ soundscape to create impact, immersing audiences in a multi-layered blend of melodies, sounds, and speech that mirrors the confusing reality of its protagonists, leaving us disoriented yet captivated.

Hall and West deliver captivating performances as they weave an intriguing and powerful connection between Claire and Kyle. While it’s challenging to pinpoint exactly what this relationship entails, it’s compelling to witness its evolution on screen.

Rankin and Waked deliver equally intriguing performances as the pair who nurture them, leaving us in suspense about whether they’re peaceful spiritualists or cunning strategists, all along.

Credit is due to Prasanna Puwanarajah and Mia Tharia, portraying Claire’s husband Paul and daughter Ashley respectively, for delivering captivating performances that showcase the devastation and turmoil that wild speculations can cause within a family.

In a brief span of just four episodes, “The Listeners” offers a swift and impactful exploration into the intricate web of influences that can lead otherwise balanced individuals towards extremism. This series humanizes those who fall prey to the allure of conspiracy theories, yet never loses sight of the devastating consequences such beliefs can inflict. As a fan, I found it both compelling and thought-provoking.

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2024-11-19 04:10