It was a cold and windy night as I made my way through 4 different modes of transport to Randwick’s Ritz Cinemas. As one does on the light rail, I found myself questioning my life and whether it is truly worth it to step outside to see movies in person, given the stay-at-home convenience that streaming services provide. However, within the first few minutes of watching Twinless, co-starring James Sweeney and Dylan O’Brien, I realised just how mistaken I had been. My theatre was completely sold out, filled with people who were in for an hour of suspense and laughter. The two people seated on either side of me had contagious, belly-shaking laughs that whenever something funny happened on screen, I couldn't help but audibly laugh along with them. It was probably the most enjoyable theatre experience I’ve ever had.

Twinless is a hilariously dark comedy following Rocky ( played by Dylan ) after the loss of his twin brother, Roman ( also played by Dylan ), who dies in a freak car accident that we see in the reflection of a shop window within the first few seconds of the film. When awkward and reserved Rocky joins a twin-bereavement support group, he meets and finds solace in a friendship with fellow twin-loss survivor Dennis (James Sweeney). Together, the pair navigate their new lives, enduring unfortunate and awkward circumstances which make for an incredibly clever and unique film. 

The premise of the story is so unapologetically crazy, and it’s executed to perfection by writer-director James Sweeney himself. The full narrative is cyclical, and the audience becomes witnesses to the build-up and breakdown of our primary male friendship as they follow the characters' emotional journeys when forced to face grief, as well as pent-up childhood trauma. How’s that for an emotionally loaded script? There are so many outrageously funny moments in this movie, from awkward encounters in which Rocky is mistaken for his dead twin to the even more awkward scene in which Dennis tries to lick Rocky’s toes. You heard me. I found myself simultaneously hooked while also trying to retreat as far back into my seat as physically possible. There was romance, there was fighting, and there were numerous references to the video game Sims, which automatically bumps up my personal rating of the film. 

The storyline was enhanced tenfold with impressive and thoughtful directing. I especially loved the symbolic camera shots that create parallels between the start and end of the film. Sweeney also isn’t afraid to experiment with his camera techniques, drawing upon cool effects like a split diopter shot and even a split-screen scene during the party to simultaneously show Rocky and Dennis’ perspectives, which looks insanely good on the big screen. I am so eager to see what this man comes up with next. 

The storyline is brought to life with powerful and memorable performances from the main cast. Following in the footsteps of Michael B Jordan in Sinner's, Dylan O’Brien seamlessly plays both twins with compelling distinction. Witnessing this man change from an antisocial straight male into his outgoing queer counterpart was a complete shock to the system. It showcased Dylan’s acting range like never before. James Sweeney’s comedic timing is incredible. Watching Aisling Franciosi’s character was like a warm hug, and everyone’s favourite Gossip Girl star, Lauren Graham, delivers a realistic and deeply emotional performance. 

Twinless brings the authenticity and heart that I think often keeps me from seeing the movies shown in cinemas. THIS is the type of cinema we deserve! This is an amazing addition to the 2025 Sydney Film Festival lineup, and I urge everyone to get tickets when they become available in mid-October. A guaranteed good time!

Rachel studies a double degree in Engineering and Arts. When she’s not catching up on her math lectures from weeks ago, she consumes as much media as humanly possible, including feminist literature, international cinema, Sidemen YouTube videos and the occasional horror video game.