A different man: exploring identity and transformation in Aaron Schimberg’s latest film
Sebastian Stan’s transformative journey in “A Different Man”
In the ever-evolving landscape of cinema, few films manage to capture the essence of human transformation and identity as poignantly as Aaron Schimberg’s “A Different Man.” Starring Sebastian Stan, who recently won the best actor prize at the Berlin Film Festival for his role, this film delves deep into the complexities of self-perception and societal acceptance.
The plot: a tale of transformation and obsession
“A Different Man” follows the life of Edward, an aspiring actor grappling with neurofibromatosis, a genetic condition that causes tumors to grow on the skin and bone. Sebastian Stan, donning prosthetic makeup modeled after his co-star Adam Pearson, brings Edward’s character to life with a raw and compelling performance. Pearson, a real-life actor with neurofibromatosis known for his roles in “Under the Skin” and Schimberg’s “Chained for Life,” adds an authentic layer to the narrative.
After undergoing facial reconstructive surgery, Edward is initially celebrated for his new appearance. However, his journey takes a darker turn when he meets Oswald (played by Pearson), an actor portraying Edward in a theater show based on his life. Edward’s obsession with Oswald, who mirrors his pre-surgery appearance, sets the stage for a gripping exploration of identity and self-acceptance.
A stellar cast: bringing depth to the narrative
The film boasts an impressive cast, including Renate Reinsve, known for her breakout role in “The Worst Person in the World,” C. Mason Wells, and Owen Kline. Each actor brings a unique dimension to the story, enriching the film’s exploration of beauty, ugliness, and the human condition.
Sebastian Stan’s immersive experience
At the film’s premiere at the Sundance Film Festival, Sebastian Stan shared his experiences of walking around New York City in his prosthetic makeup. His interactions with people revealed the stark contrasts in how society perceives physical differences.
“I interacted with people and it was really interesting,” Stan said. “It was sort of scary to see how limited the interaction is between two extremes: don’t address it or overcompensation. The only people that were the most honest were kids. I had this interaction with a little girl, and her mom is trying to do the right thing, but in doing the right thing she actually was preventing the girl from simply having an experience. She was brave and courageous, and that’s kids, right? They just want to know — they don’t have judgement. It was a learning lesson for me.”
A critical perspective: challenging societal norms
Variety film critic Peter Debruge praised Schimberg for his bold approach to the film’s themes. He noted that Schimberg attempts to put a “lifetime of thoughts about beauty and ugliness, attraction and disgust, identity and performance” into the dark comedy.
“Whereas the cultural conversation can be suffocatingly one-sided on these issues, Schimberg invites all perspectives in a movie that risks offending so-called political correctness,” Debruge wrote in his review. “‘A Different Man’ finds room for both Stan and Pearson to play characters with the same physiognomy, and it takes the bold route of making both men insufferable in different ways.”
Watch the trailer for “A Different Man” here.
Reflections on identity and societal perceptions
“A Different Man” is more than just a film; it is a mirror reflecting society’s often uncomfortable relationship with physical differences and identity. Through Edward’s journey, viewers are invited to question their own perceptions and biases. The film challenges us to look beyond the surface and understand the deeper complexities of human identity.
As the film hits theaters on September 20, it promises to be a thought-provoking experience that will leave audiences reflecting on the nature of beauty, acceptance, and the human spirit.