Plot: What’s it about?
I often joke about it, but if they could clone me then I would likely let them. A big part of me always thinks how cool it would be to have an identical twin. That, or a clone. I would likely get tired of myself, however, it would be nice to take turns going to work or having someone run you errands. Maybe things would go wrong, who knows? I bring this up, because that is the focus of our film here called Dual. I will get into more of the plot in a bit, but do be warned that it can be a bit revealing, but that’s largely because there’s not really a way to avoid plot specifics. Still, I was pleasantly surprised by this one as it drew me in and had me interested to see how things would conclude.
After receiving a terminal diagnosis, Sarah (Karen Gillan) decides she wants to have herself cloned. This would be to make her death easier on her family and friends. During the early moments of the film, we see the extent of her illness as she gets nose bleeds and appears fatigued sometimes. She even has to clean her sheets in the morning since the blood seriously stains them. So, she gets cloned and meets her new self (also played by Karen Gillan). The similarities are, but there are some serious differences in her personality and various interests. The two of them get to know each other, and before long her boyfriend is taking interest in her new double. Obviously, this is hard on Sarah, but this is also something she agreed to do. Months go by and Sarah receives news that she has gone into remission. With the wheels having already been in motion, obviously this can cause problems. Sarah wants her double to essentially be deactivated and she can resume her old life. Things aren’t so simple, and before long it is agreed that there is to be a duel between to two where only one will survive. Aaron Paul shows up as Trent. He trains the original version of Sarah to prepare her for the big challenge which is about a year away.
With elements of drama, comedy and mild Sci-Fi, the film manages to pull things off. With smaller films like this, I admit that I am never quite sure how they’ll turn out. This one held my interest and I couldn’t wait to see how things would conclude. I won’t say the ending is what I would’ve chose, but it is somehow fitting, with a dash of irony as well, but that is all I will say. It remains unpredictable, and Karen Gillan does great work in what had to be a challenging part(s) to pull off. She does great at giving both versions of herself a unique personality. This might also be a film to warrant a second viewing to pick up on small details overlooked the first time. Check it out.
Video: How’s it look?
I will give my usual remarks here, but the film looks fine. We get a 1.85:1 transfer that really didn’t have any obvious flaws that I could detect. The setting isn’t sunny nor is it the most attractive place, but the transfer still presents the film as it was shot. Viewers should be satisfied.
Audio: How’s it sound?
The DTS HD track is good, but pretty basic as well. Vocals are fine, and when needed, the rear channels kick in. There’s clarity and small details that enhance the experience. Like the visuals, this track serves the film well.
Supplements: What are the extras?
- Audio Commentary – With the Writer/Director Riley Sterns, this track gives us tons of nice details and Riley is good and not letting the track go silent. It is well worth a listen.
- The Making of Dual – In just under 10 minutes, this is a good behind the scenes. We get cast and crew interviews and learn about filming during the pandemic and even an interesting bit at the end where the cast gives their thoughts on if they’d like to be cloned or not.
- Trailers
The Bottom Line
This one could’ve gone either way, but I was surprised by how much I enjoyed it. The story is unique, but without feeling too weird or off-putting, and it kept me interested to see how things would conclude. It isn’t perfect, but it gets the job done. It might even benefit from a second viewing. Check it out.
