Twinless

This is a near perfect indie movie.

The writing and acting was so good. The characters were really well conceived and developed. The plot was creative and not very derivative (except hasn't every movie been made? Elements of this movie have been done before but not like this.) I saw hardly any of plot turns coming. It's like the opposite of a Hallmark movie, that way.

Although I loved the plot - its the personalities that drive the movie, like any good indie movie. I won't name their "issues" since that would be a spoiler but it's things I've not seen a movie deal with before, especially not in this combination. It could be a really heavy movie but it's also laugh outloud. The audience in the theater laughed often but it's not jokes or slapstick -- it's "situational comedy" in the literal sense of that term.

The two main protagonists were excellent actors and completely believable, especially since one of them does things that push the envelope of credibility. Aisling Franciosi is a stand-out in her supporting role. She plays a "straight man" to the protagonists' dysfunction but she is still quirky and not boring. Lauren Graham (Gilmore Girls) is the only actor I recognized but her acting skills were a little wasted. She didn't get much screen time and her character mostly served one purpose in the plot.

If I had one criticism, it's that it seems very low budget. It's not a "one room movie" but pretty close. It could have benefited with some more visually diverse locations. But this is a very minor issue.

Lastly, the the movie avoids a neat ending but is not irritatingly nebulous, either. I think I know the resolution but it leaves room for interpretation.

The best drama I've seen lately. I don't remember the last time I didn't want a movie to end. The dialogues, the characters, the transitions, the emotions I completely connected with the film. As everyone says, the leading duo deliver outstanding performances. And the ending leaves you completely satisfied. Definitely the drama of the year. You should really watch it.

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.

"Twinless" is my first recommendation of awards season.

1. DO watch the trailer.

2. Do NOT research the film beyond that.

If the trailer appeals to you, there's a good chance you'll like the film - and then you can leave yourself open for the unexpected.

There's at least a 50/50 of Dylan O'Brien getting nominations for the big ceremonies, and 100/100 he'll get 'em for the many smaller ones.

I wasn't bored for a second - and I felt a lot of stuff to boot.

The story itself is interesting, about a young man named Roman (Dylan O'Brien) grieving over the death of his twin brother Rocky (also Dylan O'Brien). Then while at a support group he meets Dennis (James Sweeney) who says he also lost a twin, and the two strike up a friendship, but will it help Roman through his grieving?

With the exception of a particular scene that I found uncomfortable, the movie itself was okay. Dylan O'Briens performance as the grieving Roman is well acted, and James Sweeney who also wrote and directed is also good as actor and filmmaker, the way he sets up certain camera angels. But going that extra mile when it didn't need too is the reason I can't give this movie a bigger rating.