Doppelganger (1993)

Doppelganger Poster

After being implicated in a murder, a young woman flees New York City and moves to Los Angeles, where she rents a room from a writer. They begin an affair, but it seems she's been followed by a homicidal duplicate of herself.

Movie Overview
"Doppelganger" is a mystery-horror film released in 1993, with Drew Barrymore playing a double function as a disrupted female and her malicious doppelganger. Directed by Avi Nesher, the film presents a thrilling expedition of identity, trust, and neurosis, underpinned by a sense of thriller.

Plot Summary
"Doppelganger" informs the story of Holly Gooding (depicted by Drew Barrymore), who moves from New York to Los Angeles after being implicated of a gruesome murder she insists was dedicated by her doppelganger, a spirit twin of sorts. Upon her arrival, she moves in with Patrick Highsmith (George Newbern), a budding author who is interested by Holly's story. Holly and Patrick develop a romantic relationship.

However, Holly's peculiar behavior, her claims about having a double, and a 2nd murder's occurring secret throw their relationship into a chaos. Patrick finds himself in a complex and terrible circumstance when he not just experiences the 'doppelganger' however also has a hard time to vindicate Holly from her ex-boyfriend who accuses her of being a killer.

Portrayal of Doppelganger
In the film, the 'doppelganger' is a supernatural presence, physical in form and identical from every angle. This doppelganger embodies the dark side of Holly's character, engaging her to act in ways she usually wouldn't. In some circumstances, the doppelganger functions as a metaphor for split characters meaning underlying mental issues.

Visual Effects
"Doppelganger" is known for its unique visual effects, which are well-integrated into the plotline and add to the general ambiance of worry and secret. The effects utilized to depict the dual existence of the main character are particularly noteworthy.

Important Reception
Critics have offered combined reviews about "Doppelganger". Although Barrymore's efficiency was commended, critics thought the movie's script could have been improved for a fluid narrative. The movie itself can be seen as convoluted and may leave the audience in a state of confusion. Nevertheless, Barrymore's acting, together with the distinct visual cinematic effects, makes it one worth looking for those who value mental and supernatural thrillers.

Conclusion
"Doppelganger" is a psychological horror-thriller that might not especially impress a general audience due to its somewhat difficult story, but it manages to maintain a spooky and uncertain environment throughout. Drew Barrymore's efficiency holds the film together, as she plays a dual role with conviction. With the representation of doppelgangers, it provides a remarkable insight into the concept of dual or split character, seen through a supernatural lens.

Top Cast

  • Drew Barrymore (small)
    Drew Barrymore
    Holly Gooding
  • George Newbern (small)
    George Newbern
    Patrick Highsmith
  • Leslie Hope (small)
    Leslie Hope
    Elizabeth
  • Dennis Christopher (small)
    Dennis Christopher
    Doctor Heller
  • George Maharis (small)
    George Maharis
    Mike Wallace
  • Dan Shor (small)
    Dan Shor
    Stanley White
  • Peter Dobson (small)
    Peter Dobson
    Rob
  • Sally Kellerman (small)
    Sally Kellerman
    Sister Jan
  • Carl Bressler (small)
    Carl Bressler
    Larry Spaulding
  • Stanley DeSantis (small)
    Stanley DeSantis
    Richard Wolf
  • Jaid Barrymore (small)
    Jaid Barrymore
    Mrs. Gooding