Paul Mescal has opened up about his close friendship and deep admiration for co-star Josh O’Connor, saying it “extended tenfold” while filming their new period drama, The History of Sound.
The Normal People actor, stars as Lionel opposite O’Connor’s David in the film, which follows the pair’s bond from their first meeting in 1917 at the New England Conservatory through the aftermath of World War I.
Set against the backdrop of rural Maine in the winter of 1920, the story traces their journey collecting folk songs across the American countryside.
Speaking at the BFI London Film Festival, Mescal told the PA news agency: “We’re here to celebrate the film, and it’s exciting.
“I mean we were friends before, for sure, but I think this experience of shooting with him, and the admiration that I have for Josh extended tenfold after working with him,” he explained.
“I just love spending time with him. It’s a weird thing to be asked, ‘What’s it like to spend time with a great friend?’, but it was just as I imagined… to spend time with him.
“He’s just a remarkable human being, incredibly talented and a joy to spend time with.”
Naturally, Josh was equally full of praise for his co-star, calling Paul a “brilliant actor” and reflecting on the pair’s natural connection on set.
“We knew each other well enough before, and we knew this script so well that there was a kind of shorthand between us,” he said.
Directed by Oliver Hermanus, The History of Sound explores love, music, and memory in post-war America.
The film is set for release in cinemas on January 33, marking one of the most anticipated prestige dramas of the new year.
And let’s just say, we are impatiently counting down the days!
