The Skeleton Twins
Roadside Attractions | Release Date: September 12, 2014
7.2
USER SCORE
Generally favorable reviews based on 128 Ratings
USER RATING DISTRIBUTION
Positive:
94
Mixed:
24
Negative:
10
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8
jimboesqSep 28, 2014
Really enjoyed this black comedy about siblings. if you have a brother or sister, and even a slightly unconventional life or relationship with your sibling (and I have 4 sisters!) you will see part of your life and relationship reflectedReally enjoyed this black comedy about siblings. if you have a brother or sister, and even a slightly unconventional life or relationship with your sibling (and I have 4 sisters!) you will see part of your life and relationship reflected here, and it's not often that any movie attempts to explore the bother-sister relationship in an open and honest way. The 4 main actors are excellent (esp. bill hader)and if you see the movie with reduced or realistic expectations, you will walk away with a smile. ( my 24 year old daughter took me to see it and she liked it quite a bit too).… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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8
ScribeHardSep 29, 2014
History might one day write that The Skeleton Twins was a critical entry in the careers of both Wiig and Hader. Both of them do the best dramatic work they’ve ever done, and if they do go on to long film careers (a la Williams, who also gotHistory might one day write that The Skeleton Twins was a critical entry in the careers of both Wiig and Hader. Both of them do the best dramatic work they’ve ever done, and if they do go on to long film careers (a la Williams, who also got his start on TV), their names will be on a short list of successful comedians who made it big in drama. They will also be on an even shorter list of SNL alums who can claim the same.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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9
seventhsealDec 5, 2014
This flick made me wince, laugh, cry, sing, dance and enjoy life just a little bit more than before I had watched it.

I think the overall sentiment of this flick is life is **** but its how you deal with it that makes it. Most people haveThis flick made me wince, laugh, cry, sing, dance and enjoy life just a little bit more than before I had watched it.

I think the overall sentiment of this flick is life is **** but its how you deal with it that makes it. Most people have been touched by depression or crap parenting or loves lost or life just being generally ****ty and not allowing childhood dreams to ever reach fruition. This flick covers a multitude of social stigma and ailments and rolls em all up into a ball and hits that ball clean outta the ball park!

Overall I rate this as an excellent 9 outta 10 which I know I will want to watch again and again.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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8
tvhandySep 12, 2014
Loved it. An amazing script supplemented with an equally talented cast makes the Skeleton Twins a must watch. Where this film really stands out is it's ability to tell a dark, but loving family tale that doesn't divert from it's core messageLoved it. An amazing script supplemented with an equally talented cast makes the Skeleton Twins a must watch. Where this film really stands out is it's ability to tell a dark, but loving family tale that doesn't divert from it's core message of the bond of siblings, and as a twin myself, it really hit home.… Expand
2 of 3 users found this helpful21
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9
Eon2323Dec 26, 2014
Amazing performances by SNL vets Kristen Wiig and Bill Hader, definitely the most serious roles I've seen Wiig do. The film does a great job of delving in the dis-functionality of these siblings, and it's also quite humorous as well! GreatAmazing performances by SNL vets Kristen Wiig and Bill Hader, definitely the most serious roles I've seen Wiig do. The film does a great job of delving in the dis-functionality of these siblings, and it's also quite humorous as well! Great chemistry between the two leads. My only gripe is that I feel as though not everything was necessarily explained by the end of the film.… Expand
1 of 2 users found this helpful11
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10
MaryC3Sep 28, 2014
My friend and I really loved this movie. The two lead actors, Bill Hader and Kristen Wiig, are terrific. I did not realize they could hold their own so nicely in dramatic roles. The film also had plenty of humor, of course, and I knew thatMy friend and I really loved this movie. The two lead actors, Bill Hader and Kristen Wiig, are terrific. I did not realize they could hold their own so nicely in dramatic roles. The film also had plenty of humor, of course, and I knew that they were terrific in that area. They exceeded my expectations in every way, and so did the film. The other actors were also great. There are not too many films that focus on siblings. This one did and the story really came for life for me, thanks to the fine acting. I found it touching.… Expand
1 of 3 users found this helpful12
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7
BrianMcCriticDec 24, 2014
This film works because while it's themes are depressing there are enough laughs to keep the film level. By the end you feel yourself caring about the characters and they're fate. B+
0 of 2 users found this helpful02
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8
Brent_MarchantSep 12, 2014
A funny, touching comedy-drama about facing fears and taking responsibility for our lives, with terrific performances by Bill Hader, Kristen Wiig and Joanna Gleason. There's definitely more substance here than the picture's lightweightA funny, touching comedy-drama about facing fears and taking responsibility for our lives, with terrific performances by Bill Hader, Kristen Wiig and Joanna Gleason. There's definitely more substance here than the picture's lightweight trailer implies, and the film's crisp, incisive writing delivers the goods with spot-on precision. A delightful treat in an otherwise-disappointing crop of off-season releases.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
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7
virginiaproudJan 12, 2015
A perfect movie for a lazy evening. Nothing ground breaking here, but it's entertaining enough and has some lovely moments. I enjoyed the performances from both leads very much, and Luke Wilson is great, very understated which makes theA perfect movie for a lazy evening. Nothing ground breaking here, but it's entertaining enough and has some lovely moments. I enjoyed the performances from both leads very much, and Luke Wilson is great, very understated which makes the eventual crisis all the more compelling. The only really painful thing was the Australian accent on the scuba instructor, but I always find the fake Aussie accent pretty painful. Why he decided to play it with an accent God only knows.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
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8
BHBarrySep 29, 2014
"The Skeleton Twins" was directed by Craig Johnson who co-wrote the screenplay with Mark Heyman. It stars Kristen Wilg, Bill Hader, Luke Wilson and Ty Burrell in this surprisingly serious and well-written film notable because of the"The Skeleton Twins" was directed by Craig Johnson who co-wrote the screenplay with Mark Heyman. It stars Kristen Wilg, Bill Hader, Luke Wilson and Ty Burrell in this surprisingly serious and well-written film notable because of the extraordinary performances of Mr. Hader and Ms. Wilg. It is said that a comic talent will easily adapt to a dramatic role whereas a dramatic actor will find it extremely difficult to do comedy. Mr. Hader and Ms. Wilg, comic partners from Saturday Night Live, prove the point. This is a film that tells the story of two siblings and the effect their childhood upbringing has on their adulthood. It is not an easy film to watch for it paints a picture of 2 troubled human beings and how each, in his and her own way, attempts to cope with the demons that continue to haunt them from their unhappy past to the present. I give an 8 with special kudos to the acting talents of the two main participants.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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9
preciouskikiJun 25, 2015
Kristen Wiig and Bill Hader are SO GOOD in this movie. These two are not just funny, they are both excellent actors in every respect. And so are Ty Burrell and Luke Wilson, whom I adore. I would like to see this cast in many more movies.Kristen Wiig and Bill Hader are SO GOOD in this movie. These two are not just funny, they are both excellent actors in every respect. And so are Ty Burrell and Luke Wilson, whom I adore. I would like to see this cast in many more movies. "The Skeleton Twins" is both funny and touching.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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8
MikefromAngusDec 26, 2014
Bill Hader is a great actor! wow couldn't believe how good he was in this movie! Overall the movie is good, I liked the story. Maybe it was alittle predictable in how he ending will turn out. But still it was good!
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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7
lasttimeisawApr 21, 2015
In viewing of its title, this dark comedy features SATURDAY NIGHT LIVE alumni Hader and Wigg doesn’t look like a gag-packed farce as one may preconceive, THE SKELETON TWINS is director Craig Johnson’s second film, it became a Sundance darlingIn viewing of its title, this dark comedy features SATURDAY NIGHT LIVE alumni Hader and Wigg doesn’t look like a gag-packed farce as one may preconceive, THE SKELETON TWINS is director Craig Johnson’s second film, it became a Sundance darling in 2014, and surges onto the top-tier of USA's indie output last year, so I am tempted to check whether or not it deserves the merits.

keep reading my review on my blog, please google: cinema omnivore, thanks!… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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8
beingryanjudeDec 6, 2014
An insightful look into the high's and low's of life and family. The Skeleton Twins is subtle, yet piercing--striking the heart in all of the right places. Kristen Wiig and Bill Hader may be talented comedians, but their exceeding dramaticAn insightful look into the high's and low's of life and family. The Skeleton Twins is subtle, yet piercing--striking the heart in all of the right places. Kristen Wiig and Bill Hader may be talented comedians, but their exceeding dramatic ability has never been more present.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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7
SpangleMar 14, 2016
The Skeleton Twins is a really endearing, funny, and emotional film on the realistic struggles faced by two siblings. Starring Bill Hader and Kristen Wiig, the acting here is very good and helps with the authentic feeling of the film. AnThe Skeleton Twins is a really endearing, funny, and emotional film on the realistic struggles faced by two siblings. Starring Bill Hader and Kristen Wiig, the acting here is very good and helps with the authentic feeling of the film. An incredibly sensitive and touching film, The Skeleton Twins manages to touch on topics such as marriage, depression, infidelity, and just general struggles as you get older, especially when you grow in distance from your family. Well-written and well directed, The Skeleton Twins is a delightful little indie film that is both entertaining and incredibly mature. It really never steps on the breaks, instead opting to continue pushing through the various family drama elements it touches on and, as such, the film can be quite emotionally draining. Fortunately, the jokes do lighten the mood considerably. Overall, The Skeleton Twins is a good film that is more than worth your time.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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9
dinojay2May 22, 2015
This was an outstanding blend of comedy and drama, something that is always very difficult to pull off. And the acting was spectacular. You could really feel the chemistry that probably stems from their SNL days.
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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7
LeZeeAug 26, 2015
Twins and their failures, depression, suicide attempt, together overcoming.

After the beautiful 'Hateship Loveship', I expected this one for Kristen Wiig. It was a brother-sister relationship theme. The main characters are twins and theyTwins and their failures, depression, suicide attempt, together overcoming.

After the beautiful 'Hateship Loveship', I expected this one for Kristen Wiig. It was a brother-sister relationship theme. The main characters are twins and they have lots of common. The story begins when they meet for the first time after the ten years of no connection. The circumstance was strange as they both were depressed who attempt for a self kill. That does not end successfully, instead narration commence for us where they share each others memory of the past by trying to shape up the present life. But still the old habits won't let them alone as they encounter life changing decisions by the end of the story.

Kind of a rare movie, all about the twins' bonding told in a humourous way, mostly. Mistakes are the essence of the script. The fall and rise were cleverly constructed throughout around those two characters. The cast was the plus point. Since it was about twins, Wiig and Hader are perfectly fit for their respective roles. As for Bill Hader, I've never seen he donned in a higher ranked role like this. He was always been a co-star and in this film he's one of the leads. Everybody gets their time right like awesome Timothy Spall in 'Mr. Turner'.

In this movie, these two lead performers were absolutely spot on. But the lack of pace is a challenge. If you pass through it successfully, you would get a nice entertainment. If not, the movie would be dull, pale, even it could be worse film of the year for you. Anyway, still it falls short to be an excellent film, I consider it to be a just good movie. Worth a watch, but the movie won't stay in your memory for so long.

6.5/10… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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8
NightReviewsOct 6, 2014
Contrary to its confusing and misleading title, The Skeleton Twins starring Kristen Wiig and Bill Hader is NOT a horror film.

As if the title wasn’t bad enough and a release date in October, this real world dramedy starring two shiningContrary to its confusing and misleading title, The Skeleton Twins starring Kristen Wiig and Bill Hader is NOT a horror film.

As if the title wasn’t bad enough and a release date in October, this real world dramedy starring two shining comedic stars is a gut-wrenching, tender tale of sibling rivalry and love that is relatable to every person sharing half of their genetic imprint with someone else. The Skeleton Twins is an awesome little American indie with some heart, and a lot of soul.

The siblings, Maggie and Milo, played perfectly by Kristen Wiig and Bill Hader, are two people hiding from their greatest fears and darkest demons in completely different ways. After ten years of being apart, the siblings both share a near death experiences and decide to room up and bunk together in Maggie’s idealistic suburban house outside the big apple. Hesitant and awkward at first, the two learn much about one another and the biggest challenges in each others lives: including Milo’s inability to face reality and Maggie’s fears of becoming a mother and loyal wife to her husband Lance (Luke Wilson).

While there isn’t much slapstick excitement happening in The Skeleton Twins that would initially get fans of both stars into the theatre, the real comedy comes from the comedic genius and masterminds on the page; screenwriters Mark Heyman and Craig Johnson, who has double duty as director. Offering emotionally wrenching scenes that provide a full dose of clarity to our characters and heart-breaking scenes that could easily be a glimpse into each and every one of our lives, the writing duo opt for a more realistic and fresh look at the troubles plaguing two siblings familial life. From pitch perfect arguments about favourites between the siblings, to an over-bearing mother (Joanna Gleason), to perfect husband problems including the temptation of affairs and mid-life crisis that hit strong emotional cords with audience members, the film is a divine example of having a wonderful story carried by actors who need or do very little to convey their message.

Although Wiig is comedy gold throughout all of her scenes that should not be undermined, the real star in the film is consistently underused Hader. Hader, who has never really starred in his own film and given sole spotlight, of course excluding Cloudy With A Chance of Meatballs, where he plays the voice of its hero Flint Lockwood, has always stood at the side of other comedic actors and has always provided a familiar face with being ‘that’ guy in comedies like Superbad, Paul and yes, even her. But not this time. With The Skeleton Twins, a film that equally bills Wiig and Hader, shows the dominance of Hader’s comedy and his ability as a leading man. Noticeable and glorious, Hader exudes a familiar yet original signature to Milo, the gay uncle we have known to expect and love. With his scarf wrapped around his neck in the perfectly posh position, as well as giving the perfect amount of gayness to his mannerisms and movements, Hader’s homosexual role works thankfully to his real secret weapon, flamboyant comedic timing. Hader has never been better.

Naturally, given the expectant comedy of its stars, the film isn’t all (surprisingly) about comedy. Dealing with grim and very serious issues such as suicide, unfaithfulness and the child molestation, the film flips its tone on a dime, thanks, no less, to its stars and cloudy cinematography in the sleepy suburban town outside New York City. Both leads are able to switch instantly from comedy to heavy drama, and really flesh out the big issues that are consuming their lives and the lives of the people they love around them–mostly one another. After being emotionally absent by their mother after the suicide of their father, Maggie and Milo experience the harsh realities of having a family and show-buisness all their own, given the film its real social consciousness, making for a very heavy and serious film.

The biggest boogyman in The Skeleton Twins is independence and growing up; facing truth, running away from your past and coming to terms with the people we are, and the changes we need to make in order to live a happy and fulfilling life. Wiig and Hader are two exceptional actors exercising their dramatic shops in their roles of two people figuring life out, like the rest of us with a real emotional presence and response.

There isn’t enough praise that could be given to the script and use of witty dialogue and relatable scenes of dysfunctional family drama. It’s no surprise that The Skeleton Twins snatched up the prestigious screenwriting award this year at Sundance; an award that is quite reputable given the festival’s reputation of originality and artistic cleverness.

But with any good emotional family melodrama coming out of the festival of the mountains, comes some effective comedic relief.… Expand
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7
LowbrowCinemaSep 14, 2014
Who knew that Bill Hader was such an exceptional actor? His performance in THE SKELETON TWINS is truly a revelation, simply magnificent. Kristen Wiig is equally good but we expect that from her. Together, they create a depthfully sadWho knew that Bill Hader was such an exceptional actor? His performance in THE SKELETON TWINS is truly a revelation, simply magnificent. Kristen Wiig is equally good but we expect that from her. Together, they create a depthfully sad contemplation on modern life. It's almost shocking to see two comedic actors used for such ultimately sad purposes while not eliminating the humor they find in life. Director Craig Johnson does a wonderful job with character but then those clunky plot points keep getting in the way. Will there ever be a day again when indies don't emulate Hollywood mainstream fair? THE SKELETON TWINS has so much going for it but then the creaky plot machine kicks in truly undermining so much of the good. Ultimately, one is left with a very strong statement about unhappiness and disappointment that is shockingly real and very modern. You just wish the fillmmakers had the guts to take it to it's natural end. A good film that could have actually been quite great. Like life itself, THE SKELETON TWINS disappoints.… Expand
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9
amaryllisvnSep 28, 2014
I loved this movie, but it wouldn't have worked without the wonderful performances by the lead actors, who are as funny together here as they are on SNL. Ty Burrell does a good job in a smaller role too. My only caveat is the last fiveI loved this movie, but it wouldn't have worked without the wonderful performances by the lead actors, who are as funny together here as they are on SNL. Ty Burrell does a good job in a smaller role too. My only caveat is the last five minutes of the film, which I found unsatisfying (no spoilers).… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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8
horizonbtsNov 1, 2015
This was a movie I was a little skeptical of, with two SNL cast members, but sometimes you get a nice surprise and this was one of them! A movie that shows a true slice of life and shows you how things don't always turn out as planned inThis was a movie I was a little skeptical of, with two SNL cast members, but sometimes you get a nice surprise and this was one of them! A movie that shows a true slice of life and shows you how things don't always turn out as planned in life. Also that coupled with the twists and turns that it gives you. This movie ends up being cast well as Wiig and Hader are captivating together and make you believe that they could be twins in real life-I am thinking they knew each other well by working together for so long. The humor is well done and well placed throughout the movie, but not over the top. The movie shows that there are things that a brother and sister share that no one else can replace, and that sometimes siblings are a bigger part of one's life than one might believe. If you haven't seen this movie I would put it on your must watch list. Hang in there as the first quarter of the movie sets you up for what is to take place later, what a great movie on this rainy day in Indiana. This is one I might pull out again and watch as it is worthy of a repeat visit.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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8
hanneguacamoleNov 20, 2015
I'm a twin so of course I was waiting the entire duration of this film for some revelation, until I remembered the beginning and the silly skeleton keychains, hence The Skeleton Twins. I watched this movie in August, when my sister and I sawI'm a twin so of course I was waiting the entire duration of this film for some revelation, until I remembered the beginning and the silly skeleton keychains, hence The Skeleton Twins. I watched this movie in August, when my sister and I saw each other day. But now that I'm reflecting several months later without speaking to my sister since we dropped her off at college, I understand how this happens. You get wrapped up in your own lives, your own problems. Although not everyone finds themselves in these predicaments, the relationship makes sense. The movie's real – so real it could be monotonous, but at the same time it manages to be a breath of fresh air in a not-so-perfect world.… Expand
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7
ZXSthJun 15, 2023
A darkly charming look at a particularly strife-ridden sibling relationship. While perhaps possessing some moments of slightly sub-par writing, the movie has plenty of heart. Bill Hader and Kristen Wiig give particularly strong performances,A darkly charming look at a particularly strife-ridden sibling relationship. While perhaps possessing some moments of slightly sub-par writing, the movie has plenty of heart. Bill Hader and Kristen Wiig give particularly strong performances, defying expectations based on their prior works and demonstrating a capacity for serious dramatic chops.

The Skeleton Twins is not necessarily an excellent movie, but it is very human, and possesses enough charm to carry you through to the end of the movie.… Expand
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7
geewahJan 17, 2021
A dramedy that tackles a sensitive issue with heart and humour.
Hader in particular shines and his chemistry with Wiig is what makes this movie work.
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7
pangipinguJun 25, 2023
Touching movie altogether; however, I would have voted for an alternate ending.
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10
Richard654Aug 23, 2023
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