Reel Review: A Different Man Details the Dark Side of Physical Alterations
A man dreaming of becoming an actor is held back by his physical appearance. In attempt to succeed in his dream career, he undergoes a medical procedure that drastically transforms his appearance. However, his new look quickly turn into a nightmare as he attempts to reclaim what he lost.
When we meet Edward (Sebastian Stan) at the beginning of the film, he is pursuing his dream of acting but feeling held back by his physical appearance. The only roles he gets are for infomercials regarding his condition, no deep storytelling. When an experimental procedure presents itself, he jumps at the offer and starts the process. Shortly after, his face transforms into what is perceived as a more conventionally attractive look. He abandons his old life in order to pursue his dreams, yet things don’t go to plan.
Across New York City, Edward goes to auditions, finally finding one that resonates with him. It happens to be a play put on by his old neighbor centering around a character that is largely reflective of the man he used to be. Believing this is the perfect role for him, Edward auditions yet fails to make a lasting impression. Angered by not getting what would be his previous dream role, Edward fights back against casting and auditions again wearing a mask of his old face.
After getting the role, Edward’s internal struggle continues as he grapples between who he was and who he is. While he is still the same man on the inside, his outward appearance has completely altered the way the world sees him. The way people treat him has changed, yet his personality has stayed the same. The quiet and shy man is still inside him regardless of his appearance. He realizes that much of the world perceives him the way they do more so because of his energy and personality than his face.
When the play’s director (Renate Reinsve) has a friend stop by during rehearsals, it causes Edward to spiral. Oswald (Adam Pearson) looks deceivingly similar to Edward’s former self, but his personality could not be more different. Even though Oswald looks similar to the old Edward, he never seems to be weighed down by his physical appearance. This juxtaposition in attitudes is a testament to how carrying yourself in a positive manner can alter not only your outlook on life, but how others perceive you.
Sebastian Stan is fantastic in this role. Even beneath the prosthetics or scenes without them, he is exquisitely expressive. His ability to showcase vulnerability alongside a confident facade is incredible. Not only does he play well off of other actors in a scene, but his solo shots are the shining moments. When he is alone playing this character, he is able to let everything go and just lean into the scene. Much of this role is defined by the subtle or quiet moments in which Stan excels in.
A Different Man is a deeper look at the way the world views us versus how we view ourselves. Whether we blame our genetics or personality, it is clear that it is far more important to carry yourself with love and passion than shame and hesitation. External factors will never fully fill your cup if you aren’t content with who you really are. Sebastian Stan gives an award worthy performance that leaves you knowing that no matter what you look like, who you really are is the only important thing in this life.
A Different Man is streaming on Max.
