The Double, is directed and co-written by Richard Ayoade (Submarine) and stars Jesse Eisenberg (Zombieland, The Social Network) and Mia Wasikowska (Alice In Wonderland). The Double is about Simon James played by Eisenberg, who is a soft spoken and downtrodden man who has a hopeless infatuation with Mia’s character; Hannah. But Simon’s life is tipped upside down when the flamboyant James Simon (also played by Jesse Eisenberg), a man who looks exactly like Simon but is completely opposite in terms of personality begins to work at his office.
I’m going to start with the most obvious elements for the average movie goer. Story and character. The plot of the film moves fast, straight away you are dropped in a world you know nothing about. The Mise en scene is purposely dull and displeasing to the eye. Nevertheless 20 minutes in, when Simon’s mission of hannah is revealed, the film suddenly picks up and becomes more interesting. At certain points during the run time it’s like the film just jumps and lands in the next scene, leaving you confused. We are left with no explanation and expected to figure it out for ourselves what has changed https://tbimauritius.com, this arrogance is annoying but devilishly charming also. The film is artistic and not for the faint hearted. But for the aspiring filmmaker or anyone who likes to have a dabble in the concept of filmmaking this it’s quite a work of craftsmanship.
Eisenberg produces a masterclass of acting which mirrors the direction of Ayoade. His portrayal of two characters who look exactly alike but have an altogether different presence displays his acting chops. Even when on screen wearing identical clothes you are never mistaken at which Jesse is James and which is Simon. The film really manifests the message that no matter what you look like, it’s your attitude and the way you carry yourself that makes all the difference.
Ayoade deals with the filmmaking styles of Wes Anderson and Edgar Wright but adds his own cheeky twang into the solution catalysing something truly creative. Symmetrical cinematography and use of frame mirrors that of Anderson’s films. But subtly Ayoade adds his own inventive use of camera work to elevate the shots so they do not become repetitive and boring which i found to be the case in The Grand Budapest Hotel. Ayoade borrows quick edits and music influencing shots from Edgar Wright films like Hot Fuzz and blends it perfectly into the picture. The screenplay itself also reminds me of both these directors, the pinches of comedy and quirky back and forth in conversational scenes is promoted by Eisenberg’s performance.
Despite these wonderful elements taken from my some of my favourite filmmakers, I don’t love this film by any means. It is good, though it lacked a magical touch I could not put my finger on. It had potential to be something great, that in itself excited me enough.
Overall The Double has me really excited for Ayoade’s future projects if they carry over the same style. The film is an educational joy for young filmmakers and the story truly could go anywhere at any point, dragging you effortlessly along with no remorse.
Words by Levi Eddie Aluede