Twinless - Review from the 2025 Sundance Film Festival

      **Twinless, 2025**

      **Written and Directed by James Sweeney**

      **Starring Dylan O’Brien, James Sweeney, Lauren Graham, Aisling Franciosi, Tasha Smith, Chris Perfetti, Susan Park, Heidi Herschbach, Teddy Van Ee, Conner Deadrick, Arkira Chantaratananond, Kody Harvard, Jannette Bloom, Cree Cicchino, and François Arnaud.**

      **SYNOPSIS:**

      Two young men encounter one another in a support group for those grieving the loss of a twin, leading to an unexpected friendship. While most twins, much like many siblings, tend to carve out unique identities as they mature, the loss of a twin can feel like losing a vital part of oneself. Though the same sentiment can apply to the death of a romantic partner or any close individual, the inherent symmetry of twins makes this experience distinctly poignant. James Sweeney, serving as both the writer and director (and also appearing in the film), utilizes this particular grief in *Twinless* to delve thoughtfully into these dynamics, which notably includes a substantial element of codependency.

      This film is also marked by its quirky, intricate plot that, although it encounters some frustrating plot devices and a tedious third act where anticipation lingers, effectively utilizes each narrative twist to alter character interactions and examine the nuances of various relationships. It addresses themes like the aforementioned codependency, alongside uncontrollable anger, extreme fetishes, jealousy, obsession, and possession.

      Without divulging major plot points, it is revealed that Dylan O’Brien takes on a dual role as twins: Roman, a straight but aimless loner with anger issues, and Rocky, a vivacious and openly gay charmer with a mustache. The storytelling has nonlinear elements, beginning with the sudden and tragic death of Rocky, leaving Roman emotionally shattered and seemingly more volatile, despite their growing distance as they entered adulthood. As the story unfolds, more layers of his grief are exposed.

      In search of solace, Roman begins attending a bereavement therapy group for twins and encounters Dennis (played by James Sweeney), who quickly becomes attached to him. Roman feels regret for not maintaining a closer bond with Rocky and is hesitant about solitude, so he agrees to Dennis’s invitation to go grocery shopping and spend time together. However, their relationship evolves into a dependent friendship. As Dennis is also gay, it's inevitable that Roman will become romantically involved with someone else who piques his interest, which threatens to disrupt their clingy connection, even though Dennis yearns for it to remain intact. Ultimately, Roman begins dating Marcie, portrayed by Aisling Franciosi, casting a shadow over his bond with Dennis.

      *Twinless* also incorporates elements reminiscent of a soap opera, though to avoid spoilers, specifics will not be shared. Nevertheless, it is not merely a melodramatic tale about emotionally scarred individuals; the film offers poignant and revealing insights into the characters whenever their dynamics shift, prompting new forms of communication. At one juncture, Dylan O’Brien is urged to pretend he is conversing with his deceased twin; this powerful monologue unveils significant aspects of his character. Other narrative layers are enriched as the audience learns about underlying motives and secrets held by various individuals.

      James Sweeney appears to have a particular appreciation for the iconic video game series *The Sims*, not only portraying Roman enjoying the game and discussing its reflection of human neediness, but also visually incorporating this theme into a Halloween party scene. Just as character creation is central to the game, Roman and Dennis gradually switch roles throughout the film, emphasizing this motif even further. *Twinless* is delightfully absurd and engaging on the surface, yet there lies a deeper, poignant complexity within the characters.

      **Flickering Myth Rating – Film: ★ ★ ★ / Movie: ★ ★ ★ ★**

      Robert Kojder is affiliated with the Chicago Film Critics Association, Critics Choice Association, and Online Film Critics Society. He also serves as the Reviews Editor for Flickering Myth. Check here for new reviews and follow my BlueSky or Letterboxd.