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User Reviews for: A Different Man

threespoons
9/10  2 months ago
In A Different Man, Sebastian Stan plays Edward Lemuel, a struggling New York actor with neurofibromatosis, a condition that heavily affects his facial appearance. Desperate for change, he goes through an experimental procedure to get a new face, emerging as “Guy Moratz” and ditching his old self.

As “Guy,” he auditions for a play by his former neighbor Ingrid Vold (played by Renate Reinsve), which just so happens to be based on his life. Landing the lead role, Edward’s fresh start gets complicated when he meets Oswald (Adam Pearson), another actor with neurofibromatosis. Oswald’s natural charisma and self-assuredness throw Edward’s own insecurities into sharp relief, making it clear that his real struggles might be more internal than physical.

The film dives into identity, self-perception, and society's take on looks, showing that changing your outside doesn’t magically fix everything inside. Sebastian Stan gives a strong performance, especially during the unsettling transformation scenes, but Adam Pearson’s Oswald steals the show with a vibrant, genuine energy that nails the film’s themes.

Visually, it’s got a gritty, 1970s feel that adds to the psychological weight of the story. The film swings through emotions, from funny to unsettling to downright sad, all while poking at how people react to Edward and Oswald in very real ways. It’s not shocking like The Substance, but it’s got that thought-provoking, introspective angle that leaves an impact.

In the end, A Different Man isn’t just about a face change—it’s a layered look at identity and acceptance, with echoes of The Elephant Man and The Shape of Water. Perfect for anyone who likes a deep dive into what makes us who we are.
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