“Twinless” Explores Grief and Connection in Compelling Drama

The film “Twinless,” directed by James Sweeney, is set to captivate audiences as it opens in theaters on September 5, 2023. This poignant drama, which first premiered at the prestigious Sundance Film Festival, delves into the lives of two young men grappling with the loss of their twin brothers. It features a standout performance from Dylan O’Brien, alongside Sweeney, who plays a significant role in front of and behind the camera.

At its core, “Twinless” examines the complex bond between Sweeney’s character, Dennis, who is gay, and O’Brien’s character, Roman, who is straight. Their relationship evolves following the death of Roman’s twin, Rocky. The film opens shortly after Rocky’s funeral, where Roman faces overwhelming grief and anger, particularly during a tense moment with his mother, Lisa, played by Lauren Graham. As they clean out Rocky’s apartment in Portland, the depth of Roman’s loss becomes painfully clear.

In his search for solace, Roman joins a support group where he meets Dennis. Despite their apparent differences, the two begin to forge a connection as they navigate their shared experiences of loss. Their friendship grows through shared activities such as grocery shopping, where Roman expresses his desire for honest communication, indicating a wish to avoid future embarrassment.

As the plot unfolds, Roman decides to stay in Portland, taking on a job offered by Rocky’s former employer. This decision brings him closer to Dennis, who becomes increasingly involved in Roman’s life. Their bond is tested when Roman starts dating Marcie, played by Aisling Franciosi, a cheerful coworker of Dennis. While Marcie’s presence brings joy to Roman, it complicates Dennis’s feelings, who perceives her as an intrusion on their growing friendship.

O’Brien’s portrayal of Roman offers a layered performance, particularly during flashbacks that feature Rocky. Sweeney, while not a standout actor, brings a sense of vulnerability to Dennis that resonates throughout the film. As a filmmaker, Sweeney shows promise, skillfully balancing moments of joy and tension that keep viewers engaged.

Despite occasional pacing issues, “Twinless” delivers an authentic and intimate portrayal of grief and recovery. It challenges audience expectations, providing a narrative that is both compelling and thought-provoking. The film’s ending may not satisfy every viewer, but it feels fitting within the context of the story.

With a runtime of 1 hour and 40 minutes and an R rating for sexual content, nudity, and language, “Twinless” invites audiences to reflect on what it means to connect with others in the face of profound loss. As it makes its way to theaters, the film promises to leave a lasting impact on those who experience its heartfelt journey.