A Different Man is genuinely hard to review. The film is shot in a way that feels like something out of older times, with muted colors and an almost grainy look. The camera will suddenly zoom into a frame with the music swelling for dramatic effect. Even though the plot isn't remotely similar, in some ways it reminds me of American Psycho. And like that movie, this movie has that dreamlike surrealist haze around it, where the reality of everything feels tenuous and interactions seem to almost be fake. Within this framework, we follow Edward, a man with a disfigured face who feels like his circumstances prevent him from living his best life. The movie examines this concept, scrutinizing if his outward appearance is truly to blame. I liked this thematic core, and I think the movie executes well on it. However, that sort of heightened reality cracks my suspension of disbelief a lot in this movie. It works in something like American Psycho because it fits what that movie is trying to do, but in this movie, I need to believe that the changes in circumstances for Edward are genuine; otherwise, the message becomes muddled. That stilted approach gives the movie stylistic flair but prevents me from connecting with the characters and messaging at times. I really like Renate Reinsve, but Sebastian Stan's chemistry and interactions with her always feel a bit off. Maybe all of this is intentional, and it certainly does seem to be emulating older movies that aim to create that uncanny atmosphere. But the purpose eludes me here. Also, her accent cracks through a lot unfortunately, though I do think her acting is solid. With the last shot, the movie is fairly clear in what it is trying to say, but I am not sure if its form supports it. However, all of that said, its style makes for a visually gripping movie reminiscent of a lot of famous older surrealist movies.