DVD Corner's blog

Dual Blu-ray Review

“Dual” is a unique multi-genre film.

Written and directed by Riley Stearns, “Dual” can be best described as a sci-fi comedy thriller. The story revolves around Sarah whose life is falling apart. Her relationship with her boyfriend has plummeted, she doesn’t really connect with her mother, and she is dying from a terminal illness. With her life allegedly nearing an end, Sarah turns to the common practice of cloning so that her loved ones won’t be without her. Sarah teaches her to double to take her place, but it goes a little too well as both her boyfriend and mother connect more with her double. Matters become increasingly complicated when Sarah learns her terminal illness diagnosis was a mistake. By law, the clone is set to be decommissioned in this instance unless it expresses a desire to live. Sarah’s double wants to stay alive and, as such, must battle the original Sarah in a duel to the death. Knowing she isn’t combat ready, Sarah begins combat training under a teacher named Trent (played by a stoic Aaron Paul), but will it be enough to survive?

As outlandish as the premise may sound, “Dual” turns out to be a refreshingly edgy, darkly comedic, and surprisingly emotional high-concept sci-fi story about identity, duality, survival and life. Riley Stearns clearly incorporates elements from his previous film “The Art Of Self-Defense” here, but “Dual” fares better as a more mature and thoughtful character piece. This is in large part due to Karen Gillan’s extraordinary dual performances as both Sarah and her double. Gillan has always made an impression dating back to her days on “Doctor Who,” but the actress continues to thrive whether she’s in a big movie like “Avengers: Endgame” or a smaller indie film like “Dual.” To say she has range is an understatement.

It’s possible the challenging ending may put off some viewers (especially having gone on such a journey with the character of Sarah), but in retrospect, it really sums up the point of the movie in that life often doesn’t go as planned. 

Video/Audio:

Presentation: 1.85:1 1080p. Grade: B+

Audio Track: 5.1 DTS-HD MA. Grade: B+

Extras include RLJE Films trailers, a nearly 10 minute making of featurette which includes interviews and set footage, and a commentary by writer/director Riley Stearns.

July 9, 2022 - Posted by nicklyons1 | Blu-Ray review | Dual Blu-ray Review, Dual Movie, Karen Gillan, Sci-Fi Movie