The movie "Twinless" a comedic drama featuring Dylan O'Brien experienced an unexpected turn at the Sundance Film Festival. Shortly after receiving the Audience Award the movie was removed from Sundance's online streaming service. This action was taken because scenes and other movie content were illegally shared online .
Online Piracy Issues Forces Sundance to Remove Both "Twinless" and "Selena y Los Dinos" Films
"Twinless" is not the only movie affected. "Selena y Los Dinos" a documentary about Tejano singer Selena was also taken down from the platform. Both films faced copyright problems with unauthorized clips appearing on platforms such as TikTok and Instagram. Sundance stated that "Selena y Los Dinos" encountered copyright infringements. For "Twinless" the issue involved plot spoilers and scenes circulating online after its Audience Award win on Friday.
"Twinless" Movie Starring Dylan O'Brien Faces Piracy Problems Right After Winning Audience Award at Sundance
Sources indicate that "Twinless" was not removed solely because of steamy scenes featuring O'Brien. The bigger concern was the spread of significant plot details which could spoil the viewing experience for future audiences. The movie is still seeking a distributor after the festival. Director James Sweeney seemed to acknowledge the situation humorously when accepting his award suggesting people were at least enjoying the pirated content. Most of these leaked clips have since been taken down.
Sundance Film Festival Responds to "Twinless" Piracy Incident and Film Removal from Platform
Sundance representatives released a statement confirming the removal of "Twinless". They explained that the movie became a victim of copyright infringement across social media. To protect the filmmakers' work Sundance and the filmmakers decided to take it off the online platform. Sundance expressed regret that online ticket holders could no longer watch "Twinless". They promised to give vouchers to affected ticket holders so they could watch other movies at the festival. Sundance emphasized its commitment to supporting independent filmmakers and protecting their artistic creations. They also mentioned they would work with law enforcement regarding piracy.
Details About "Twinless" Movie Plot Awards and the Cast Involved in Production
"Twinless" is about two friends who find each other in a support group for individuals who have lost a twin. Dylan O'Brien of "Maze Runner" and "Teen Wolf" plays twin brothers in the movie and has received praise for his performance. James Sweeney not only directed and wrote "Twinless" but also stars in it and has been recognized for his unique approach. Critics have described the movie as both funny and touching dealing with themes like grief anxiety and anger. The cast also includes Aisling Franciosi Lauren Graham Tasha Smith Chris Perfetti François Arnaud Susan Park and Cree Cicchino. Republic Pictures is handling the sales for the movie.
Sundance started offering online streaming during COVID-19. It continued this even after in-person festivals returned because of its popularity. However sales agents have expressed concerns about online screenings. They worry about leaks and prefer theatrical screenings where audience reaction can positively influence a movie's sale price. While fan piracy is common for movies with theatrical releases some in the industry believe it can ultimately benefit a film.
It is noted that enthusiastic fan bases for both Selena and Dylan O'Brien might have contributed to the rapid spread of leaked clips. Sundance has used security measures like watermarks for hundreds of digital screenings without previous major issues. "Twinless" was considered a standout movie at Sundance. It received a 100% rating on Rotten Tomatoes from critics initially. The movie won both the Audience Award for U.S. Dramatic and a Dramatic Special Jury Award for Acting for Dylan O'Brien at the festival.
Sundance's online platform was planned to be available from January 30 to February 2. The idea of online screenings has created division within the film industry. In 2021 Sundance reported half a million viewers used their streaming platform. TIFF also tried online screenings but later stopped due to piracy risks. "Twinless" was made with a relatively small budget. Sources indicate significant interest from buyers in acquiring the movie.
Sundance reiterated their stance on copyright infringement. They stated they are serious about it and will cooperate fully with authorities on piracy matters. For those who bought tickets for "Twinless" and had not watched it Sundance is providing vouchers for alternative movie screenings. Sundance aims to keep its platform running smoothly for all other movies still available.