Rupert, Rupert & Rupert

Rupert, Rupert & Rupert is an extraordinary 2019 movie that captivates audiences through the unorthodox journey of a struggling actor who is battling an intriguing condition. Directed by Tom Sands and featuring a superb performance by Sandy Batchelor, who seamlessly weaves heart and complexity into the tapestry of this flick, the charm and depth of the storyline is essentially straightforward yet exceptionally delicate.

Sandy Batchelor steps into the shoes of the titular character, Rupert Lindsay, an aspiring actor trying to get a breakthrough in the big leagues of London's vibrant theater scene. Rupert is not your ordinary novice; he battles with a complex form of Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID), once known as Multiple Personality Disorder. This disorder gifts Rupert with two more personalities, all distinct and truly unique in their own right.

The bold narrative choice to explore Dissociative Identity Disorder gives us a version of Rupert who's thoughtful and gentle, another Rupert who is casual and optimistic, and finally, a Rupert who is aggressive and unfiltered. Despite this seemingly chaotic and conflicting interior life, his ambitious spirit never falters. However, managing these three personalities while struggling to establish a career in the notoriously demanding and competitive world of acting is what forms the crux of the movie. The challenge of portraying this character is embraced whole-heartedly by Batchelor, whose skillful and sensitive performance is one of the film's high points.

In the face of the odds against Rupert, a shimmer of hope appears when he lands a role in a play directed by the passionate yet volatile director, Michael, played by the talented Adam Astill. A multi-faceted character, Michael is authoritative but also under pressure to make a success of his play which adds another layer of tension to the dynamic fabric of the film's narrative.

However, on the path to recognition and dream-fulfilment, Rupert's relationship with his girlfriend Suzanne becomes strained. Played by Daisy Keeping, Suzanne tries to understand Rupert's world, providing emotional assistance even amidst the complex maze of his three-in-one personality. Daisy Keeping contributes compassion and strength in her performance as Suzanne, creating a compelling counterpoint to Rupert's internal struggles.

Rupert's complicated journey to finding himself and determining which of his identities is authentic is as heart-touching as it is thought-provoking. The film skillfully treads the terrain of personality disorders, tackling an often misunderstood and stigmatized aspect of mental health with sensitivity and respect. Instead of reducing Rupert to a one-dimensional caricature, director Tom Sands delves into the intricacies of his experiences. This approach, coupled with Batchelor's nuanced performance, extends beyond superficial interpretations, offering a deeper exploration of the character.

While the film grapples with this profound subject matter, it retains a lighthearted tone that balances the tension and tugs at our heartstrings. There are moments of humor delicately sprinkled throughout the narrative, which counterbalance the poignant and dramatic highlights of the movie. This winning combination of intense drama and light comedy makes the film not just engaging but also relatable.

The film also seeks to take a stab at the harsh realities of the acting industry, the competition, the relentless pressure, and the constant need for validation. The subplot that demonstrates the power dynamics within the theatre world adds a clear and critical dimension to the movie.

Visually, the film is pleasing as well. The director uses the vibrant and at times austere backdrop of London to frame Rupert’s struggles and successes, offering a colourful and picturesque palate that illuminates the narrative.

In conclusion, Rupert, Rupert & Rupert is a moving and immersive film that explores mental health and personal identity in a fresh, sensitive, and insightful way. While dealing with a complex and sensitive issue, it manages to maintain a familiar and relatable tone. It draws viewers into an intricate journey of self-discovery and acceptance. One really has to experience this film to understand the depth and sophistication that it brings to the table. It's an unconventional but heartfelt voyage through the human mind and the relentless pursuit of dreams.