Twinless, a film exploring the complex grief of two men connected through the loss of their twin brothers, reveals an unexpected twist that reshapes the story’s emotional core. Dylan O’Brien, who plays Roman, discussed his optimistic view on the movie’s conclusion in a recent interview, highlighting themes of forgiveness and healing central to the film’s narrative.
Throughout Twinless, the character Dennis, portrayed by James Sweeney—who also wrote and directed the film—conceals the truth that he never had a twin. He fabricates this story to get close to Roman after falling in love with Roman’s deceased twin, a fact that strains their friendship once it is uncovered. The film’s ending leaves their relationship open to interpretation, with a potential reunion suggesting either closure or a new beginning.
Insights into the Complex Finale from the Cast and Creator
In a conversation with ScreenRant’s Liam Crowley, James Sweeney, Dylan O’Brien, and Lauren Graham shared their perspectives on the movie’s ending and its implications. Sweeney emphasized the artistic openness of the conclusion, encouraging audiences to form their own interpretations rather than expecting a definitive answer.
“I mean, I hate to give you an anti-climactic answer, but I think part of what we were tracking throughout this film, and I guess the nature of art in general is you create something and then you leave it and it is kind of up to the audience to decide. I’d say personally, I have my own interpretation, but I am really mostly curious in what audiences think. What do you think?” —James Sweeney, Writer-Director and Actor
Dylan O’Brien offered a more hopeful interpretation of the characters’ interaction during the film’s final scene at the diner. He described the moment as one of mutual healing and the gradual lowering of emotional barriers between Roman and Dennis.
“I don’t know whether to protect or share this. I personally, I have an optimism about the ending. I mean, not even an optimism. I think it’s there in that you see them heal throughout the scene with each other. You see, there’s such important, again, it’s so well done in the detail. At first, he doesn’t take the bite of the sandwich, and then he takes the bite of the sandwich again. You see the walls coming down. So I do think, I’ve always felt that, and maybe it says something about my relationship to forgiveness. I think it’s important in healing.” —Dylan O’Brien, Actor
He further reflected on Roman’s capacity for growth, emphasizing how the character’s willingness to forgive signifies a significant evolution.
“And yeah, I do think that they survive this at some point. And I do think Roman has a heart for where he was coming from. Again, these guys know each other so well. It was such a special relationship. I don’t think that he would just toss it away. I think I love so much more for Roman’s evolution that I think at one point in his life, he would’ve never forgiven this f–k. You know what I mean? He would’ve been like, ‘That f–king piece of s–t. But now he’s able to, and I think that’s a beautiful piece of his arc.” —Dylan O’Brien, Actor
Lauren Graham addressed the revelations surrounding Dennis’ manipulative actions and Roman’s subsequent discovery. When asked if Roman would confide in Lisa about these events, Graham expressed belief that such openness might mark a step toward healing.
“Yes, I do. I feel like actually in Twinless part 2, that might be part of their road to healing.” —Lauren Graham, Actress
Understanding Dylan O’Brien’s Positive Interpretation of the Film’s Conclusion
O’Brien’s choice to focus on an optimistic outcome provides a meaningful lens through which audiences can view the film’s final moments. His perspective lends credibility to the possibility that Roman and Dennis will remain connected despite the betrayal that once broke their bond. This view stands in contrast to what could have been a simple severing of ties after Dennis’ deceit was revealed.
The actor’s belief in Roman’s ability to forgive reflects not only his understanding of the character’s complexities but also suggests themes of redemption and renewed trust. Given O’Brien’s role in shaping Roman, his take offers valuable insight into how the character might continue to navigate his emotional journey beyond the story’s end.
Twinless’ subtle complexity and emotional depth were key factors in its critical recognition at the Sundance Film Festival 2025, with O’Brien’s hopeful interpretation highlighting the film’s capacity to inspire conversation about grief and reconciliation.
Evaluating Twinless’ Ambiguous Yet Impactful Ending
The ambiguity embraced by director and writer James Sweeney allows Twinless to resonate differently with each viewer, yet Dylan O’Brien’s comments give a grounded, encouraging understanding of what the ending might signify. The suggestion that Roman and Dennis could rebuild some form of friendship points to a nuanced portrayal of human relationships fractured by loss and deception but not permanently broken.
Such a hopeful reading imagines that after confronting past wounds, they could move towards a peaceful coexistence or even genuine companionship. O’Brien’s attention to detail in the final scene, such as the symbolic act of eating the sandwich, emphasizes the gradual dismantling of emotional defenses, making the ending both subtle and powerful.
Lauren Graham’s remarks hint at continuing character development that could be explored in future stories, potentially delving deeper into the healing processes between the film’s central figures.
Although Twinless concludes with a sense of bittersweet resolution, Graham’s acknowledgement of unresolved issues implies that the movie’s universe could expand, focusing less on the twin motif and more on evolving relationships.
As noted in ScreenRant’s review, Twinless balances emotional resonance with humor, featuring Dylan O’Brien at a compelling and courageous peak. This blend of tones creates a film that is both heartfelt and engaging, leaving audiences eager for what might follow.
Main Cast and Characters
-
Dylan O’Brien as Rocky / Roman
-
James Sweeney as Dennis
