With _Sound of Metal_ winning two Oscars last year and being nominated for four more, it would seem that filmmakers have recognized the potential of stories dealing with deaf individuals. Unfortunately, this film didn't quite live up to that potential for me.

The unique angle of a hearing daughter amongst an otherwise deaf family is compelling and well executed. The problem here is that the unique angle isn't used to explore an equally unique plot. The fundamental story is rife with clichés, feeling like it would be right at home as a Hallmark or Disney Channel original. A girl who wants to pursue her dream and go to college but who is held back by conflict with her family. A love interest with whom our protagonist has a rapid falling out and equally rapid reconciliation. An eccentric mentor who she _also_ has a rapid falling out and equally rapid reconciliation with. The story beats in this film will likely feel very familiar and the fact that our protagonist is a Child of Deaf Adults isn't enough of a twist to fully mitigate that familiarity.

Now, even though the story feels like Hallmark/Disney Channel, the quality of the filmmaking certainly does not. This movie is very well made. The acting is generally great, and despite all complaints of familiarity, the movie still lands some potent emotional punches. [spoiler]I definitely got watery eyed when Ruby's dad verbally tells her to go[/spoiler]. It's just unfortunate that it couldn't also tell a more unexpected story.

For those looking for other films dealing with deaf individuals, I strongly recommend _The Tribe (2014)_. It is much more avant-garde, exploring the dark world of a Ukrainian boarding school for the deaf. There is essentially no dialogue and the Ukrainian sign language is not subtitled, making for an eerie not-quite-silent silent film.