Twinless

You wouldn't think a movie that starts with a funeral and centers on a support group for people who've lost their identical twin would be the source of gut-busting laughter, but James Sweeney's "Twinless" manages to be just that. It's a brilliant, darkly comedic gem that had me laughing consistently from start to finish. This film is an absolute triumph of tone, balancing a genuinely sad premise with some of the sharpest and most unexpected humor I've seen on screen all year.

The magic of "Twinless" lies in the phenomenal chemistry between its two leads. Dylan O'Brien plays Roman, a stoic, grief-stricken man who is completely adrift after the death of his charismatic twin brother, Rocky. At a "twinless" support group, he stumbles into an unlikely friendship with Dennis, played by the film's writer and director, James Sweeney. Their dynamic is comedy gold. O'Brien's deadpan, often confused reactions to the world are the perfect foil for Sweeney's neurotic, quick-witted, and hilariously awkward Dennis. Every conversation they have, from buying groceries to navigating a Halloween party, is layered with clever one-liners and cringe-worthy moments that are utterly hysterical.

What makes the film so special is its fearlessness in finding comedy in the darkest of places. The script is packed with situations so uncomfortable you can't help but laugh. The support group scenes alone are a masterclass in awkward humor, led by a counselor who seems to be working through her own issues. The film constantly plays with your expectations, setting up what seems like a dramatic moment only to undercut it with a line of dialogue or a visual gag that is both shocking and incredibly funny.

"Twinless" is more than just a comedy; it's a smart, inventive, and surprisingly heartfelt film about loneliness and the strange ways people connect. But above all, it is hilarious. If you are looking for a movie that will make you laugh until you cry, this is it. It's a truly original film that proves even in grief, you can find something to laugh about.

Not as advertised.

The production is good. But hard to care about the characters.

Telling you anything about it would be a spoiler The acting and styling is great, but after 20 minutes in I didn't care

What else can I tell you that wouldn't ruin it if you decide to watch it. I watched it in a theater and did not run out, although I thought about doing that.

Basically the twin thing is more of a plot device, regardless of the blurb or reviews it's not about twins.

Watched at the 2025 Sundance Film Festival.

While it's narrative and approach is something we have seen before, no doubt James Sweeney has created an fun, comedic and emotional story about gay romance and bonds with a good sense of direction, likable characters and strong performances from the cast members. Filled with some creative dialogue, fun dynamics between the characters, and tone, Sweeney understands how to develop queer characters without feeling forced and out of place. Fitting each heartfelt moment and fun comedic elements nicely.

Alongside with the fun characters, James Sweeney's performance was great and Dylan O'Brien is also really great. I'm not the biggest Dylan O'Brien fan but when he isn't in action films, his dramatic and comedic performances are quite good. I am a bit surprised it went into some directions that I didn't expect which is good to get out of the traditional predictable moments together.

Despite some issues with the lighting and pacing, overall, James Sweeney has crafted a really fun joint.

I went into the movie not really knowing much about it. I think I'd seen a preview, so I had a vague idea that it was about twins, and I really liked the film. I thought the acting was excellent and I hope that the three main characters get more work, because I thought they all were really believable, without a false note anywhere. As sad/emotional as the film was at times, I also thought it had a lot of humor without it every feeling forced or jokey. All in all, a really enjoyable movie.

A decent premise with good performances, especially from Dylan O'Brien. A little bit of action, comedy, and drama; and a few cool visual sequences. The film felt pretty cohesive, but I felt it didn't quite go to the extremes that it could have. I would've liked to learn more about Dennis' backstory too. (7.9/10)