Obscure actor Edward (Sebastian Stan), suffers from neurofibromatosis so has a deformed face. His career is going nowhere and his attractive new neighbour, struggling playwright Ingrid (Renate Reinsve), is only interested in being friends. So, when offered a new facial reconstructive treatment, he accepts the offer. It is more successful than anyone imagines and some time later, the handsome Guy, as he has now named himself, is a successful estate agent who is dating a colleague.
But when he sees that Ingrid has an off Broadway play based on Edward, he becomes desperate to get the lead role. Soon it becomes clear that his new life is not as perfect as it seems.
There is plenty to enjoy in Aaron Schimberg’s drama. Stan, Reinsve and Adam Pearson, who actually has neurofibromatosis and who replaces Guy in the play, are all really impressive. There are a few laugh out loud moments along the way, and Schimberg often nicely explores the nature of beauty and self identity. However, the longer it runs, the more wayward the plot becomes and the less effective the film is as a result.
Rating: 6.5 out of 10