Reviewed on February 16th at the 2024 Berlin International Film Festival – Competition. 112 Mins
Cast: Sebastian Stan, Renate Reinsve, and Adam Pearson
Genre: Comedy, Thriller
Director:Â Aaron Schimberg
In Irish Cinemas: 4th October 2024
A Different Man, the latest film from writer and director Aaron Schimberg, appears to have been heavily inspired by his previous collaboration with actor Adam Pearson. Pearson, who starred in Schimberg’s critically acclaimed 2019 film Chained for Life, shares a real-life connection with the subject matter of the new film, bringing an additional layer of authenticity to the narrative. Premiering at the Sundance Film Festival in January, A Different Man tells the story of Edward, played by Sebastian Stan, who suffers from neurofibromatosis. This genetic disorder causes non-cancerous tumours on the nervous system, often affecting the skin and surrounding bones. This is the same condition Pearson has in real life, further intertwining his experience with the film’s themes. In the movie, Edward undergoes a groundbreaking and experimental procedure that completely eradicates the disease and all traces of his facial deformities. As a result, he becomes physically unrecognisable, even to those closest to him, including his doctors. This dramatic transformation raises questions about identity, self-perception, and how people’s lives are shaped by their outward appearances. Schimberg’s film uses this premise to explore deeper existential themes while also continuing his interest in showcasing underrepresented narratives in cinema.
Edward is an aspiring actor, but his deep-seated shame about his condition makes him withdrawn and uneasy around others, especially his new neighbour, Ingrid (Renate Reinsve), a struggling writer trying to draft her first play. Edward’s discomfort prevents him from fully connecting with those around him, including Ingrid, who only knows the timid and insecure version of him. When Edward transforms treatment, the shift is so dramatic that Ingrid doesn’t even recognise him, assuming she’s met a completely different person. Inspired by her interactions with the old Edward, Ingrid develops a play based on their unusual and complex relationship. Meanwhile, the “new” Edward, now more confident and eager to shed his former self, becomes fixated on playing the lead role in her project, a character that reflects his own life.
Enter Oswald (Pearson), a vibrant, charismatic, and effortlessly charming man—everything Edward had once dreamed of becoming before his treatment. Oswald is joyful, kind, and sharp-witted, embodying the qualities Edward always lacked. Despite Oswald’s friendly demeanour and apparent desire to bond with Edward, it becomes clear that Oswald is not only a rival for the coveted role in Ingrid’s play but also for her affections. As Oswald grows closer to Ingrid, Edward’s insecurity and jealousy spiral out of control. The pressure mounts and Edward finds himself unravelling mentally, terrified that Oswald will steal the role of a lifetime and the woman he’s come to care for. This escalating crisis pushes Edward to the brink of a complete mental breakdown as he faces the terrifying prospect of losing everything he holds dear.
A Different Man offers a powerful and thought-provoking exploration of identity, emphasising how personality shapes us and others perceive us. The film subtly suggests that Oswald may be more aware of his profound effect on Edward’s life than he lets on, leaving viewers to question just how much he understands about his influence. It skillfully balances moments of humour with profound tragedy, creating a rich emotional landscape. Watching Pearson (whom audiences may recognise from his performance in 2013’s Under the Skin alongside Scarlett Johansson) evolve as an actor is truly captivating. In A Different Man, Pearson fully inhabits a character everyone is drawn to. Sebastian Stan gives a fabulous performance and acting masterclasss portraying Edward, which rightly earned him the Silver Bear at the 2024 International Berlin Film Festival.
Overall: 7/10
Movie Reviewer
