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.

I appreciate the thoughtful and sincere portrayal of the friendship between a straight man and a gay guy.

It beautifully challenges established stereotypes, stigmas, addressing the common hesitance people often feel toward such uncommon relations.

What stands out to me even more is how Sweeney as the writer-director, avoids introducing any unnecessary romantic elements.

He ensures that the friendship between Roman and Dennis remain genuine and unaffected by sexual tension or political statements.

Instead, it focuses on the nuances of human connection and our inherent desire to forge and nurture meaningful companionships in what can often feel like a lonely and harsh world.

If only the subtleties and the dramatic resolution were handled with proficient emotional payoff, perhaps with the help of some backstory explorations, I would have been more content with the final outcome!

This may seem like a comedy, but it is not. It felt more like a thriller even tho it has all the trimmings of a heavy drama. And for that reason, it should most certainly be considered for award season. It's multi genre and complex. The characters are saying one thing yet many things are happening simultaneously. It may seem predictable, but just went you feel like you do want to get comfortable, the characters throw in a wrench.

Dylan O'Brien was simply put fantastic! He plays two roles with such dexterity, his performance is nothing short of flawless. James Sweeney is not far behind as the character who has trouble living in his own skin. All in all, this film is a delight! It hits all the right notes at the right times keeping you glued at the edge of your seat!

There are so many ways/ places Twinless could have gone, but the director Sweeney chose the right balance to make it all work simultaneously. This is the kind of film I could sit through 4 more hours to see what happens to the protagonists.

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.