Dylan O’Brien and James Sweeney Open Up About Queer Themes and Vulnerability in “Twinless”

When “Twinless” premiered at the 2025 Sundance Film Festival, its innovative blend of black comedy and nuanced psychological drama quickly captured the attention of critics and audiences alike. Written, directed by, and starring James Sweeney, and featuring Dylan O’Brien in a career-defining dual role, the film explores the lives of two young men who meet in a support group for twinless twins and forge a bond that transcends traditional boundaries of grief, friendship, and identity .

From its inception, “Twinless” was marked by a commitment to authentic, multidimensional representation. While the film’s central premise revolves around the unique grief of losing a twin, Sweeney—who is openly gay—has described the project as “deeply personal,” intentionally including queer subtext and characters whose identities are portrayed with empathy and humor .

In a Collider interview ahead of the film’s release, Sweeney explained, “I wanted ‘Twinless’ to feel real to anyone who’s ever felt like an outsider, whether because of their grief, their sexuality, or both. For me, being part of the LGBTQ+ community means telling stories that reflect the complexity of our lives—not just our struggles but our moments of levity and connection."

O’Brien, who portrays both Roman and his late twin Rocky, emphasized the importance of diverse storytelling in contemporary cinema. “There’s this intimacy in the way James writes male friendships—there’s no fear of vulnerability or softness. It’s something queer audiences immediately recognize because it’s a reality we live, even if Hollywood rarely shows it,” O’Brien said during a recent press roundtable .

Principal photography took place in Portland, Oregon, with the cast and crew intentionally fostering an environment of inclusivity and psychological safety . According to Sweeney, having queer creatives both in front of and behind the camera shaped the tone and authenticity of the finished product. “It’s not just about putting queer people on screen,” he told MTV, “it’s about making sure the process itself is welcoming and affirming for everyone involved” .

Supporting cast members, including Chris Perfetti—an openly gay actor known for his advocacy—echoed this sentiment. In interviews, Perfetti praised the production’s collaborative spirit, noting that “everybody’s voice was respected, regardless of their identity. That’s rare, and it makes a difference in the work you see on screen."

At its core, “Twinless” is a meditation on loss and the power of chosen family—a concept with deep resonance in queer communities. The film’s central relationship between Roman and Dennis, played by O’Brien and Sweeney, moves beyond the confines of the traditional “buddy comedy.” As the two men navigate grief, awkward social encounters, and the search for identity, their bond evolves with tenderness and mutual support .

The narrative’s exploration of intimacy between men—physical, emotional, and platonic—challenges long-standing stereotypes. “We wanted to show that it’s possible to love someone deeply without labels or fear, and that sometimes the most profound connections come from places of shared vulnerability,” Sweeney said .

“Twinless” debuted to critical acclaim, winning the Audience Award at Sundance and earning praise for its sharp writing and standout performances . Reviewers have noted the film’s deft handling of queer themes and emotional complexity without resorting to cliché or tragedy. One reviewer described it as “a brilliant, darkly comedic gem…layered with clever one-liners and cringe-worthy moments that are utterly hysterical, but never at the expense of empathy."

Queer advocacy organizations have also celebrated the film’s contribution to visibility and dialogue. GLAAD issued a statement commending the filmmakers for “expanding the landscape of queer cinema and demonstrating the importance of intersectional storytelling in mainstream film."

Both O’Brien and Sweeney have spoken openly about the personal impact of their work on “Twinless.” In a heartfelt Instagram post following the film’s premiere, O’Brien wrote: “This movie changed me. I learned so much about grief, about loving your friends, and about being brave enough to be seen for who you are. I hope others see themselves in these characters, too."

Sweeney, reflecting on his journey as a queer filmmaker, added, “If even one person feels less alone after watching ‘Twinless,’ then we’ve done our job. Representation isn’t just about who gets to be the hero—it’s about letting people see their own stories reflected back at them."