The Sound of Silence

Compelling performances from Sarsgaard and Jones make up for the uneven tone of this character-driven directorial debut about the power of sound. There's no shortage of quirky indie films set in Manhattan, so it's difficult to consider this one remarkable, but it's just entertaining enough to merit a viewing. Peter is a fascinating, uncompromising man whose science may not strictly stand up to peer-review standards but who stays steadfastly attached to his theories and methodologies. However wacky he seems, audiences will feel invested in his sounds of the city.

And Jones once again delivers a subtle, nuanced performance as a sad, tired woman whose mood doesn't improve even after Peter's house tuning. She does a fine job in this quiet but strong role. Austin Pendleton and Tony Revolori are also notable in supporting roles as Peter's academic friend and research assistant, respectively. But director Michael Tyburski's first feature owes its star a debt; Sarsgaard carries the film. There's a moment when it's clear that, despite all his research, Peter may never receive the acclaim he believes he merits, and Sargaard nails the scene, evoking the disappointment and despair of dashed dreams -- first in silence, then with sound.