Twinless is a quietly affecting and thought-provoking film that delicately unpacks the complex emotions surrounding grief, identity, and human connection.
Directed by and starring James Sweeney alongside Dylan O’Brien, the film follows Roman (O’Brien), who returns to his hometown for the funeral of his identical twin brother, Rocky. From the very start, the film sets up a powerful contrast between the two brothers: Rocky was vibrant, charismatic, openly gay, and widely adored, while Roman is introspective, emotionally withdrawn, and guarded. The loss of Rocky leaves Roman untethered, as if one half of his very being has been severed.
The film’s strength lies in its subtle handling of Roman’s journey through grief. Rather than a loud or melodramatic depiction, Twinless takes a measured, intimate approach, inviting the audience into the quiet moments of loss that feel raw and deeply personal. Roman’s attempt to find solace leads him to a twin bereavement support group, a unique setting that allows the narrative to explore themes of identity and connection in unusual ways.
At this group, Roman meets Dennis (Sweeney), a magnetic and enigmatic figure whose personality eerily echoes that of Roman’s late brother, Rocky. From their very first interaction, the chemistry between Dennis and Roman is palpable, carrying an almost familial quality that blurs the lines between friendship and something more intangible. Their relationship becomes the emotional core of the film, a connection that is as compelling as it is unsettling. The dynamic between the two characters raises a haunting question that lingers long after the credits roll: What happens when the person who knew you best is gone?
Dylan O’Brien delivers a nuanced performance as Roman, embodying the character’s guarded exterior and emotional complexity with great subtlety. Roman’s quiet pain and vulnerability seeps through, even when he tries to maintain a tough exterior, inviting viewers into looking deeper beyond his aloofness. O’Brien’s portrayal is grounded and believable, making Roman’s grief feel tangible and relatable.
James Sweeney, who also directed the film, offers a fascinating counterbalance as Dennis. His performance carries a mix of charm, humour, and underlying mystery. Sweeney’s comedic timing is impeccable, injecting Twinless with moments of dry, dark humour that provides welcome levity without undermining the serious themes at play. His portrayal of Dennis brings a lively energy that contrasts with Roman’s reserved demeanour, making O’Brien and Sweeney’s interactions feel fresh and unpredictable.
The exceptional performances of O’Brien and Sweeney have not gone unnoticed. Twinless was recently honoured at the Sundance Film Festival 2025, winning both the US Dramatic Special Jury Award for Acting and the Audience Award. These prestigious accolades underscore the film’s powerful impact and the outstanding work of its leads.
One of the film’s most notable achievements is its deft blending of humour and heartache. Twinless is unapologetically a dark comedy, filled with sharp wit and clever dialogue that elicit genuine laughs and leave you sitting there thinking “oh that’s dark”, yet you’re unable to look away. However, the humour never overshadows the emotional depth of the story. Instead, it enhances it, allowing moments of levity to underscore Twinless’ exploration of pain and healing. This balance makes the film feel authentic, a reflection of how grief often mingles with humour in real life.
The screenplay carefully avoids clichés or predictable tropes often found in grief dramas. Instead, Twinless subverts expectations, inviting viewers to experience the story without preconceived notions. The less you know going in, the more you’re able to appreciate the film’s layered narrative and nuanced character development. Twinless is a film that rewards patience and attention, revealing its emotional complexity gradually.
Twinless opts for an understated aesthetic, focusing more on character interactions and emotional beats than flashy cinematography. This choice works well to keep the audience grounded in Twinless’ intimate world. The supporting cast and setting feel natural, further immersing the viewer in Roman’s experience.
In conclusion, Twinless is a beautifully crafted film that explores grief and identity with a unique blend of humour and poignancy. Dylan O’Brien and James Sweeney deliver standout performances that anchor the film’s emotional core, while the story’s delicate balance of darkness and levity offers a fresh perspective on loss and human connection. Whether you’re drawn to heartfelt dramas or dark comedies, Twinless provides a compelling, memorable experience that lingers long after the screen fades to black.
Twinless is currently screening as part of the 2025 Sydney Film Festival.
For more information and ticketing, visit:
https://www.sff.org.au
https://www.sff.org.au/program/event/twinless