HIS DOUBLE LIFE

Cinemavixion Review

Arthur Hopkins' "His Double Life" presents a fascinating, albeit brief, exploration of identity and circumstance. Roland Young delivers a nuanced performance as Priam Farrel, an artist whose reclusive nature is hilariously disrupted by a case of mistaken identity. When his valet's death is wrongly attributed to him, Farrel seizes the opportunity to adopt the deceased's persona, a decision that spirals into a series of comedic and dramatic predicaments. Lillian Gish provides a grounding presence, though her role is less central to the central conceit. The film, clocking in at a brisk 68 minutes, cleverly uses its premise to comment on the masks we wear and the unexpected consequences of seeking refuge from one's own life. It's a charming, thought-provoking piece that rewards patient viewing.