Twinless, the highly anticipated LGBTQIA+ comedy-drama that took gay Twitter by storm earlier this year, is gearing up for a potential theatrical release later this summer. The film, which gained significant attention after its premiere at the 2025 Sundance Film Festival, is currently in final negotiations for distribution with Roadside Attractions, Lionsgate, and Sony Pictures Worldwide Acquisitions, according to Variety.
Directed by James Sweeney, who also stars in the film alongside Ponyboi star Dylan O’Brien, Twinless tells the story of two young men who form a unique bond after meeting at a support group for people who have lost their twin. Their unlikely connection leads to an intense and, at times, complicated friendship.
Critical Acclaim and Sundance Success
Premiering in the U.S. Dramatic Competition at Sundance, Twinless quickly became a festival favorite, earning the coveted Audience Award for its striking portrayal of grief, identity, and unexpected connections. The film has earned rave reviews for its blend of dark humor and emotional depth, with many praising Sweeney’s performance as well as his direction.
Dylan O’Brien and James Sweeney in Twinless. Photograph: Lionsgate
With a remarkable 95% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, Twinless has garnered attention for its emotional poignancy and sharp wit. The Hollywood Reporter highlighted Sweeney’s ability to mix “dry humor, gutting devastation, and emotional poignancy” to create a heartfelt and at times gut-wrenching story that resonates with audiences.
Leaked Scenes Spark Controversy
However, not all attention surrounding the film has been positive. Following its Sundance premiere, several scenes from Twinless were leaked on social media, causing a stir online. The leaked footage, which showed Sweeney and O’Brien’s characters in an intimate moment, prompted a copyright infringement statement from the festival. A Sundance spokesperson acknowledged the issue, explaining that the festival had to remove the film from its online platform in an effort to protect the filmmakers’ intellectual property.
“We regret that online ticket holders will no longer be able to access the film,” the spokesperson said. “However, part of our commitment to advocating for independent filmmakers is ensuring that they can protect the art that they have created – now and in the future.”
Star-Studded Cast and Anticipation Builds
In addition to Sweeney and O’Brien, Twinless features a talented ensemble cast, including Aisling Franciosi (Speak No Evil), Lauren Graham (Gilmore Girls), Tasha Smith (Survival of the Thickest), Chris Perfetti (Abbott Elementary), François Arnaud (Blindspot), Susan Park (Snowpiercer), and Cree Cicchino (And Just Like That…).
As the film continues to make waves in the industry, LGBTQIA+ audiences and movie lovers alike eagerly await its official release. Fans of Sweeney’s past work and the strong supporting cast are sure to find something to love in Twinless when it hits cinemas later this year.
For those still hungry for a preview, check out Sweeney, O’Brien, Franciosi, and Graham’s January interview with Variety for a deeper dive into the film’s making and the cast’s chemistry.
