“All unhappiness in life comes from not accepting what is”
Growing up with a cleft palate provided director Aaron Schimberg a unique, albeit mentally taxing and often painful experience throughout his life, without such, 2024’s A Different Man may not exist. This upbringing granted Schimberg, who both wrote and directed the film, the ability to craft something that is very much all his own, bred from his own insecurities and own experiences living life in a world which, frankly doesn’t treat disfigurements too kindly. Schimberg weaves a film that highlights the both the unfortunate “ugliness” in appearance experienced by those with neurofibromatosis and many other disfigurements, as well as the literal and perpetual ugliness that those same individuals endure on a daily basis.
A noted fan of the late David Lynch, A Different Man draws direct inspiration from 1980’s The Elephant Man, the biopic depicting the troubled and often brutal life of Joseph Merrick the English artist, who’s life was infamously affected by neurofibromatosis. From stares while riding on public transportation, snide under the breath remarks between friends – the discomfort is palpable and ever present through each and every scene – as it should be. Hats off to Schimberg for creating something that truly asks the audience to turn their head back, to not break line of sight, and to stare and be disgusted. It’s not difficult to create something provocative, but it is difficult to create something beautifully provocative – and Schimberg drawing on that same Lynchian inspiration creates what he says is “…accessible but more exhilarating than the so-called mainstream…”.
Aspiring actor Edward Lemuel experiences the world through a special lens, both literally and figuratively. Edward, suffering from neurofibromatosis which manifests itself in the form of benign tumors growing all across his face, wishes to make his own place in the world, away from the continuous stares and constant stigma associated with his unfortunate appearance. After being introduced to a brand-new potential life-altering medication, Edward decides to join the drug trial in hopes of creating some sense of normalcy for himself. The treatment proves to be a success, as the disfigurement that Edward has carried around for his entire life literally melts off of his face – also grants him the life that he has endured years of torment to deserve.
Endowed with a a new complexion and a new sense of being, Edward’s first act of socially inept, undesirable to … well still socially inept, but handsome, begins to show new signs of life. Starting from scratch, Stan’s new persona Guy proceeds to bury the Edward of old and being life anew. Teaming up with a former neighbor, playwright Ingrid (Renate Reinsve) on her stage production of the now “deceased” Edward’s life as she saw it, Guy begins to realize that all that glitters, isn’t always gold. Cast as the lead role of himself, many of the films themes really start to shine, as Edward/Guy struggles with his now sense of identity and the happiness that should be accompanied by his newfound good looks. Self-acceptance doesn’t come naturally, nor should it for someone who faced ridicule and torment his whole life for the way he looks – and Sebastian Stan’s performance is truly put on fully display. Stan, who as of writing this, won the Golden Globe for Best Actor in a Musical or Comedy for his role of Edward shines through and through, and gives a truly career defining performance.
Another shining light that deserves recognition is Adam Pearson (Under the Skin, Chained for Life) – who is actually afflicted by neurofibromatosis. Pearson’s jovial, uplifting and endearing performance as Oswald gives a stark juxtaposition to Stan’s downtrodden, neurotic Edward. Pearson, gives a tremendous view on how someone with a true disability can shine beyond their appearance and create an aura and atmosphere that is truly refreshing to see.
My only critique comes in the slight tonal shift from the first to second act, as there is a time jump that leads to some character progression that I think would have been better suited giving at least a short montage to, as to understand how the characters have ended up in their respective positions as we pick back up in the second act. All that to be said, A Different Man delivers on all other points and truly causes the audience to face the ugliness that has been ingrained in their minds and to look beyond that and appreciate the beauty that comes in all shapes and sizes.
A Different Man is now streaming everywhere on Max. 4/5 stars.
MPAA Rating: R.
Runtime: 112 mins
Director: Adam Schimberg
Writer: Adam Schimberg
Cast: Sebastian Stan; Renate Reinsve; Adam Pearson
Genre: Comedy | Drama
Tagline:
Memorable Movie Quote: "Oh my friend, you haven't changed a bit."
Theatrical Distributor: A24
Official Site:
Release Date: October 4, 2024
DVD/Blu-ray Release Date:
Synopsis: An aspiring actor undergoes a radical medical procedure to drastically transform his appearance, but his new dream face quickly turns into a nightmare.