W
Aaron Schimberg, the writer and director, has crafted an entertaining yet somewhat contrived noir satire that serves as a parable about the masks we put on to meet others. It’s unclear if the film ultimately makes the profound statement it intends to, and it’s also uncertain if the similarities to early Woody Allen are deliberate. Nevertheless, it is a striking and thought-provoking piece, largely due to Adam Pearson’s stunning performance. Pearson, who previously appeared in Jonathan Glazer’s Under the Skin, was also directed by Schimberg in his previous film, Chained For Life.
The story takes place in a dreary New York City and follows Edward (played by Sebastian Stan), an aspiring actor with a craniofacial condition. Despite his efforts, he has only been able to land a role in a corporate instructional video on how to interact with co-workers who also have craniofacial conditions. Edward is introverted and anxious, often compared to Woody Allen by his neighbor. Ingrid, played by Reinate Reinsve, portrays the role of the charming and kind next-door neighbor, reminiscent of Annie Hall.
After undergoing a groundbreaking surgery that makes him conventionally attractive, Edward’s life takes a dramatic turn. He begins to live under a new identity, but when he learns that Ingrid is writing a play about their friendship, he insists on taking on the lead role while wearing a mask of his old face. However, the arrival of Oswald, a charming and self-assured British man with the same facial condition that Edward used to have, changes everything. Despite being a huge admirer of Ingrid’s work, Oswald has no desire for surgery and is content with his appearance. His confidence and joy in life make him a rival to Edward’s doppelgänger.
The complex and unusual nature of the plot requires just as much focus and belief from viewers as any other element on screen. However, Schimberg’s film stands out by avoiding typical horror conventions that other films may embrace. The character of Pearson stands out for his carefree demeanor, in contrast to the restraint of others, giving the film a dreamy and daring quality. Its tone and message cannot be easily defined.
Source: theguardian.com
