This double-bill brings together two films that place listening at the centre of acts of investigation, revealing sound as a crucial witness to events that might otherwise remain obscured.
Created through a collaboration between Forensic Architecture and Earshot, The Last Responders (2026) is a documentary by Egyptian filmmaker Mohamed A. Gawad that follows an investigation into an attack by the Israeli military, drawing on testimony, audio analysis and spatial reconstruction.
Brian De Palma's cult thriller Blow Out (1981) approaches sonic inquiry through fiction, following a sound recordist who becomes entangled in a political conspiracy after inadvertently capturing evidence of what he believes to be a murder.
Moving between documentary investigation and cinematic suspense, the films demonstrate how listening can become a method for uncovering hidden truths, exposing violence and challenging dominant narratives.
With an introduction by Caline Matar.
Caline Matar is the deputy director of Earshot, the world's first non-profit organisation using sound in the defence of human and environmental rights.
Book two ticketed events as part of the Lawrence Abu Hamdan: Repercussions takeover and get 20% off, book three or more and get 30% off.
Repercussions is generously supported by Cockayne Grants for the Arts, a Donor Advised Fund, held at The Prism Charitable Trust.
The British Board of Film Classification (BBFC) provides guidance to audiences, to help them choose what’s right for them and avoid what’s not. For guidance, please click here and type the film title into the search bar.
In an age where it is harder to believe what we see, sound is becoming increasingly vital evidence for political resistance.
Discover other events in the programme which explore the urgent and expansive concept of sonic rights:
Hear from the 'Private Ear'
Learn more about Lawrence Abu Hamdan's work in audio analysis and aural testimony.
Cinema 1
Location
Barbican Cinema 1 is located within the main Barbican building on Level -2. Head to Level G and walk towards the Lakeside Terrace where you’ll find stairs and lifts to take you down to the venue floor.
Address
Barbican Centre
Silk Street, London
EC2Y 8DS
Public transport
The Barbican is widely accessible by bus, tube, train and by foot or bicycle. Plan your journey and find more route information in ‘Your Visit’ or book your car parking space in advance.
