The Double with Richard Ayoade Q&A

Based loosely on a novella by Dostoyevsky, The Double stars Jesse Eisenberg as Simon James is a dystopian every-time, trapped in a cycle of being ignored and taken advantage by everyone in his world from his colleagues to his mother and – of course – the girl he likes. Soon, entering Simon James’ world is his doppelgänger, James Simon – a more charismatic and ruthless version of himself who quickly usurps Simon in every aspect of his life. The tone and aesthetic of the film is reminiscent of Terry Gilliam, that out-of-kilter and out-of-step awkwardness carefully scratching the back of your neck and captivating at each unique step. The live streaming Q&A with director Richard Ayoade was an added bonus, as he modestly answered questions from Jonathan Ross and the assembled and linked up audience, betraying his comedy routes with highly entertaining yet informative answers.

Duke Of York’s Picturehouse, 27 March 2014

Rating: