Dylan O’Brien Delivers a Career-Best performance in ‘Twinless,’ Sparking Calls for Wider Recognition
Dylan O’Brien’s latest film, Twinless, hitting theaters this week, is generating buzz not just for its compelling narrative, but for a performance many are calling a career high for the actor. The independent thriller showcases a dramatic range previously glimpsed in O’Brien’s diverse filmography,leading critics and audiences alike to question why the 32-year-old hasn’t consistently received the accolades afforded to his contemporaries.
While known to many for his breakout role as Stiles Stilinski in the MTV series Teen Wolf (2011-2017) and his leading role in the maze Runner franchise (2014-2018), O’Brien has quietly built a portfolio of intriguing and frequently enough unconventional projects. This consistent willingness to take risks, coupled wiht his increasingly nuanced performances, suggests an actor poised for a significant leap in industry recognition. Twinless may be the catalyst for that shift, prompting a reevaluation of his talent and potential.
O’Brien’s post-Teen Wolf and Maze Runner choices demonstrate a intentional effort to defy typecasting. He starred in the monster movie Love and Monsters (2020), the satirical comedy Not Okay (2022), and took on a role in the LGBTQ+ independent film Ponyboi (2023), which has garnered praise for its sensitive portrayal of complex themes.He also showcased his comedic timing and impression skills as part of the Saturday Night live cast in 2018, notably performing an impression of Dan Aykroyd. Further demonstrating his versatility, O’Brien tackled time travel elements in the streaming thriller caddo Lake (2023).
Beyond film and television, O’Brien collaborated with Taylor Swift, appearing in her critically acclaimed All Too Well: The Short Film (2021), a project lauded for its emotional depth and visual storytelling, where his performance was credited with adding layers to the already powerful song.
With Twinless now in theaters, the conversation surrounding O’Brien’s career is gaining momentum. The film’s release provides a timely opportunity to acknowledge his consistent dedication to challenging roles and his growing stature as a compelling and versatile actor. The hope among fans and industry observers is that this performance will propel O’Brien into broader critical discussions and secure him roles that fully utilize his considerable talent.
