- Starring
- Dylan O’Brien, James Sweeney, Lauren Graham
- Writer
- James Sweeney
- Director
- James Sweeney
- Rating
- n/a
- Running Time
- 100 minutes
- Release Date
- n/a
Overall Score
Rating Summary
This will be one of many reviews during this year’s Sundance Film Festival, to keep up with our latest coverage, click here.
Losing a sibling is undoubtedly one of the hardest things someone can possibly have to deal with, but losing a twin is an extra level of pain. It’s like losing part of one’s self. Twins share more than just genetic makeup, but often an indelible bond, and it can feel impossible to move on without that attachment. James Sweeney’s sophomore effort Twinless explores this concept. The film stars Dylan O’Brien as Rocky, a man who has recently lost is his twin following a freak car accident and since then, attends a support group for those who have lost a twin. There he meets Dennis (Sweeney), a man who seemingly shares many similarities to Rocky’s brother. From there, the pair develop a brotherly bond as they help to fill the void in each other’s lives. If this was all there is, it would still be a very compelling and unique topic for a film. However, just like last year’s Sundance breakout, A Different Man, its twists and turns, revealing itself to be a completely fresh and thrilling dark comedy.
Sweeney first gained recognition for his debut, the micro-budget comedy Straight Up, which wasn’t a major hit but has since developed a devoted following. However, his latest effort feels like a significant step forward for him. His screenplay is sharp and assured, expertly balancing its tricky tonal shifts, while his direction boasts a notable sense of style. A recurring theme at Sundance this year has been emerging directors taking on lead roles in their own films, a challenge that not everyone can pull off. While Sweeney’s performance may not be as polished as that of the seasoned O’Brien, he tackles an incredibly complex role with skill. Dennis is an elusive and enigmatic character, constantly evolving before our eyes, and Sweeney fully commits to the part.
O’Brien, meanwhile, has come a long way since his Maze Runner days as a teen heartthrob. Delivering solid performances as of late, Twinless is sure to elevate him as one of the most in-demand actors working today. The role demands impressive versatility as he seamlessly embodies the macho, yet sensitive and somewhat oblivious Rocky while also playing his flamboyant, effortlessly slick twin brother in a series of flashbacks. Beyond the shared physical traits and subtle nuances that link them, it’s almost hard to believe both roles are performed by the same actor. These characters exist on completely opposite ends of the spectrum, yet O’Brien makes their twin bond feel entirely believable.
Sweeney’s script is refreshingly original, taking bold risks that ultimately pay off. While Twinless may not be the most visually ambitious film of the year, Sweeney’s confident direction ensures that his big swings translate to the screen in exciting and unexpected ways. It’s not necessarily emotionally resonate despite dealing with heavy themes, but its daring originality secures its place among the year’s standout films.
Premiering at a festival typically known for small-budget dramas exploring grief and the human condition, Twinless initially appears to fit that mold, only to subvert expectations in thrilling fashion. What begins as a familiar setup quickly transforms into something entirely different, delivering a provocative and wildly entertaining ride from start to finish.
*still courtesy of Sundance*
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