Twinless Review: Dylan O’Brien and James Sweeney Shine in a Bold Exploration of Grief, Identity, and Connection

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Jan 28

James Sweeney’s sophomore feature, Twinless, is an audacious blend of comedy and drama that dives headfirst into the intricacies of grief, identity, and the human longing for connection. Balancing moments of absurdist humor with raw emotional depth, Sweeney crafts a film that’s equal parts heartfelt and entertaining, offering audiences a layered exploration of loss and the universal need for companionship.

At its core, Twinless tells the story of Roman (Dylan O’Brien), a man grappling with the untimely death of his twin brother, Rocky. Struggling to reconcile his grief and sense of incompleteness, Roman attends a twin bereavement support group where he meets Dennis (played by Sweeney), a fellow mourner with a knack for compulsive storytelling and awkward charm. As the two men navigate their shared experiences, their budding bromance is tested by secrets, lies, and the emotional weight of their losses.

Sweeney’s screenplay is a marvel of tonal balance, juxtaposing moments of biting humor with deeply poignant emotional beats. The dialogue sparkles with wit and irreverence, while the narrative delves into the vulnerabilities and flaws that define its characters. This careful calibration allows Twinless to tackle weighty themes without becoming overburdened, making room for moments of levity that feel authentic rather than contrived.

Roman’s character arc is particularly compelling, shaped by his unresolved feelings about his strained relationship with Rocky and the surreal experience of being mistaken for his twin by strangers. Dennis, meanwhile, adds an element of unpredictability to the story, his compulsive lying and “messy gay” persona creating both comedic tension and a deeper exploration of identity. Together, Roman and Dennis form an unlikely yet deeply affecting duo, their dynamic serving as the emotional anchor of the film.

Dylan O’Brien delivers a career-defining performance in Twinless, showcasing remarkable range as both Roman and his late twin, Rocky. The dual role allows O’Brien to embody two contrasting personas—Roman’s quiet vulnerability and Rocky’s confident bravado—offering a nuanced portrayal of how identity and relationships are shaped by loss. His ability to switch seamlessly between these roles highlights his versatility as an actor, anchoring the film with authenticity and emotional resonance.

Sweeney, wearing multiple hats as writer, director, and actor, is equally captivating. His portrayal of Dennis is a masterclass in character work, blending awkward humor with moments of surprising emotional depth. Sweeney’s performance underscores the complexity of his character, making Dennis both endearing and exasperating, a reflection of the messy realities of human relationships.

The film’s supporting cast adds richness and texture to the story, each performance contributing to the emotional tapestry of Twinless. Lauren Graham shines as a skeptical support group member whose pragmatism serves as a counterpoint to the chaos of Roman and Dennis’ relationship. Aisling Franciosi delivers a standout performance as a fellow bereavement group attendee grappling with her own twin-related trauma, adding emotional gravitas to the narrative.

Other notable performances include Tasha Smith and Chris Perfetti, whose characters provide moments of levity and introspection, rounding out the ensemble with memorable contributions.

POPULAR ON THE CINEMA GROUP

From a technical perspective, Twinless is a triumph. The cinematography captures the intimacy and vulnerability of its characters’ world, using tight framing and muted color palettes to mirror the emotional weight of the story. The film’s score is equally effective, its shifts between playful melodies and haunting undertones reflecting the tonal complexity of the narrative.

Sweeney’s direction is assured and purposeful, guiding the audience through a labyrinth of emotions without losing sight of the story’s central themes. The film’s pacing is deliberate, allowing room for its characters to breathe and its emotional beats to land with impact.

While Twinless is rooted in the specific experience of twin bereavement, its themes resonate on a universal level. The film uses the unique dynamics of twin relationships as a lens to explore broader questions about identity, belonging, and the ways we cope with loss. Sweeney’s nuanced storytelling peels back the layers of his characters’ façades, revealing profound truths about the human condition.

What sets Twinless apart is its willingness to embrace the messiness of grief and relationships. The film doesn’t offer easy answers or neatly tied resolutions, instead opting for a more honest portrayal of the complexities of healing and connection.

Twinless is a bold, innovative film that cements James Sweeney as a filmmaker to watch. By blending sharp humor with heartfelt emotion, Sweeney has crafted a story that is as entertaining as it is thought-provoking. Dylan O’Brien’s standout dual performance and Sweeney’s multifaceted talents elevate the film, making it a standout entry in the Sundance Film Festival’s U.S. Dramatic Competition.

For audiences seeking a film that challenges, entertains, and resonates on a deeply emotional level, Twinless is a must-see. Its exploration of grief, identity, and human connection will leave viewers reflecting long after the credits roll.