Documentary Review: Three Identical Strangers (2018)
A Compelling Tale of Separated Triplets
Three Identical Strangers (2018) is a gripping documentary that hooks viewers from its very premise—a story of three identical twins who were separated at birth and reunited by chance in adulthood. This astonishingly true story begins on a light-hearted and almost unbelievable note, only to delve into deeper, more serious waters as the film progresses.
The documentary, directed by Tim Wardle, is notable for its unexpected twists and emotional complexity. From the joyous initial reunion of the brothers to the unsettling revelations that follow, the film offers a captivating narrative that keeps the audience engaged throughout.
With fascinating subject matter and an ever-evolving storyline, Three Identical Strangers expertly combines elements of surprise, mystery, and emotional impact. It is a must-watch for anyone interested in exploring the profound and often unsettling implications of nature versus nurture.
Synopsis of 'Three Identical Strangers'
A compelling blend of mystery and revelation, Three Identical Strangers details the astonishing true story of identical triplets separated at birth and their subsequent reunion. The documentary traverses the heartwarming and the harrowing aspects of their lives.
Overview of the Documentary
Three Identical Strangers is directed by Tim Wardle and centers around the lives of three men: Robert Shafran, Edward Galland, and David Kellman. Born identical triplets, they were separated at birth and adopted by three different families.
The film starts with the accidental reunion of the brothers at the age of nineteen. Initially, the narrative radiates joy and curiosity but soon transitions into a darker exploration of the reasons behind their separation.
Triplets' Reunion
The triplets' reunion begins with a bizarre coincidence. Robert Shafran, upon entering college, is mistaken for someone named Eddy. After meeting Eddy Galland, the two realize they are brothers. Shortly thereafter, a news story about their reunion attracts the attention of David Kellman, the third brother.
Their meeting generates an immediate bond and a media frenzy. The story captures public imagination, presenting them as an unusual but heartwarming case of separated siblings finding each other.
Initial Joy and Public Attention
Following their unexpected reunion, the triplets enjoy a period of public adulation and personal happiness. They garner extensive media coverage, appearing on talk shows, in newspaper articles, and even opening a restaurant together.
Despite the joyful beginning, the documentary hints at underlying complexities. This period of celebration and fame serves as a prelude to the more intricate and somber aspects that the film will eventually uncover.
Background Information
"Three Identical Strangers" (2018) tells the gripping story of triplets separated at birth and reunited as adults. This section covers essential details about the director, production, and the historical context that shaped this fascinating documentary.
Director and Production
Tim Wardle directed "Three Identical Strangers," released by NEON and CNN Films. Wardle is known for his investigative and thought-provoking approach to storytelling.
The film premiered at Sundance Film Festival in January 2018 and went on to win a Special Jury Award. It utilizes archival footage, interviews, and reenactments to unveil the astonishing narrative of the triplets.
The production team was crucial in weaving together decades of footage to create a seamless, impactful film.
Historical Context
The documentary focuses on the 1980s, a period when the triplets were first exposed to the public eye.
The story began in New York when the triplets, separated at birth by an adoption agency, unexpectedly reunited. This reunion caught significant media attention, highlighting the ethics of nature vs. nurture experiments.
Their bizarre and emotionally charged story is set against the backdrop of adoption practices and psychological studies of the era, which were less regulated than today.
Themes and Analysis
"Three Identical Strangers" explores significant themes, including the nature vs. nurture debate, ethical considerations in psychological research, and the intricacies of identity and family bonds.
Nature vs. Nurture Debate
The documentary prominently investigates the age-old debate of nature versus nurture. The triplets, separated at birth and raised by different families, offer a unique case study.
Their shared behaviors and preferences, despite different upbringings, highlight the impact of genetics on personality and habits. Conversely, their distinct life paths underscore the role environmental factors play in shaping individuals.
The film effectively utilizes interviews, archival footage, and direct comparisons among the siblings to examine how both genetic predispositions and different environments influence human development.
Ethics in Psychological Research
The ethical dimension of the triplets' separation for a secret study raises critical questions. The documentary reveals that their adoption was part of a psychological experiment without the families' consent.
It scrutinizes the responsibilities of researchers and the boundaries of ethical conduct. Ethical lapses in the study, such as lack of informed consent and the psychological impact on the subjects, are discussed.
The exploration of this unethical research practices serves as a starting point for broader discussions on the ethical standards required in psychological and scientific research, resonating strongly in the field of bioethics.
Identity and Family Bonds
The rediscovery of each other at the age of 19 led the triplets into deep contemplation about their own identities and the significance of family connections.
The film chronicles their emotional journey as they grapple with the joy of reunion and the pain of lost years. Through their narrative, it dissects how identity is intertwined with familial connections and individual upbringing.
Psychological and emotional impacts of long-lost family reunions are sensitively portrayed, emphasizing the profound influence of familial bonds on personal identity. The documentary underscores the complex interplay between self-perception and familial relationships, revealing layers of their emotional and psychological experiences.
Critical Reception
"Three Identical Strangers" received wide acclaim for its captivating storytelling and emotional depth. Both film critics and the audience praised its ability to intertwine human interest with investigative journalism.
Reviews by Film Critics
Film critics lauded "Three Identical Strangers" for its surprising narrative and powerful delivery. Roger Ebert's site mentioned the personal connection and recollection of the story when it first emerged, emphasizing the film's emotional impact.
Variety noted the documentary's ability to break fresh ground by uncovering the reasons behind the triplets’ separation. The Critical Movie Critics highlighted Tim Wardle’s thorough investigative approach, tracing the lives of the triplets from birth and emphasizing the ethical concerns surrounding their adoption.
Moreover, Vulture appreciated the film's shift from a light-hearted beginning to a more intense, tragic exploration of the triplets' lives. The documentary’s engaging narrative and thorough investigation kept critics intrigued and impressed.
Audience Response
The audience had a strong emotional response to "Three Identical Strangers." Viewers were captivated by the real-life story and the shocking revelations about the triplets' separation and their subsequent reunions.
Many audience members expressed their admiration for the film’s ability to convey the emotional and psychological impact on the triplets. They praised the documentary’s pacing and storytelling, which kept them engaged from start to finish.
Social media and review platforms saw numerous discussions about the ethical implications raised by the film. The audience’s empathy for the triplets was evident, with many viewers feeling deeply moved and affected by their story. This wide array of reactions underscored the documentary’s profound influence on its viewers.
Cinematic Techniques
"Three Identical Strangers" employs various cinematic techniques to deepen the narrative and engage viewers. The documentary's narrative structure, use of archival footage, and interviews play pivotal roles in telling this extraordinary story.
Narrative Structure
The narrative unfolds in a non-linear fashion, revealing information gradually to maintain suspense. Tim Wardle starts with the initial reunion of the triplets, drawing the audience into a seemingly heartwarming tale. As the story progresses, darker elements are introduced through a series of revelations.
This juxtaposition helps in maintaining audience interest and emotional investment. Flashbacks and cutbacks are effectively used to piece together the past and present events. This structure not only illuminates the personal experiences of the triplets but also delves into larger ethical questions about nature versus nurture.
Use of Archival Footage
Archival footage plays a crucial role in this documentary. Historic news clips, family videos, and photographs bring authenticity and depth to the narrative. The footage from the 1980s contextualizes the triplets' initial media frenzy and the cultural backdrop.
Incorporating these elements bridges the past with the present, making the viewer more immersed in the unfolding mystery. This technique also underscores the documentary's investigative angle, providing tangible evidence that supports the broader story being told.
Interviews and Portrayals
Interviews are central to "Three Identical Strangers." Wardle conducts interviews with the triplets, their families, friends, and experts to add multiple perspectives. The triplets' firsthand accounts lend emotional weight and personal nuance.
Wardle's approach to interviews is empathetic yet probing. Each participant's portrayal is handled with sensitivity, ensuring their voices contribute authentically to the narrative. This allows viewers to connect emotionally while considering the complex ethical implications highlighted throughout the film.
Impact and Legacy
"Three Identical Strangers" has had a significant impact on adoption practices and documentary filmmaking. This film reshaped public perception and revealed hidden aspects of both industries.
Influence on Adoption Practices
The story of "Three Identical Strangers" exposed the ethical issues in adoption practices from the 1960s to the 1980s. The separation of the triplets for a secret study led to increased scrutiny and calls for transparency within adoption agencies. Many began to question past practices, prompting some agencies to re-evaluate their policies.
This revelation also raised public awareness about the long-term psychological effects of such separations. Mental health professionals and bioethics organizations took a stronger stance on keeping siblings together. The documentary has influenced modern discussions surrounding adoptee rights and the importance of genetic heritage in identity formation.
Contributions to Documentary Filmmaking
"Three Identical Strangers" broke new ground with its investigative approach and narrative style. The combination of personal interviews, archival footage, and a gradual unveiling of the story created a compelling and engaging experience. Tim Wardle's direction ensured that the pacing kept viewers engrossed, making it a standout in documentary filmmaking.
This film demonstrated the power of documentaries to uncover real-life mysteries and provoke societal change. It has since inspired other filmmakers to adopt similar techniques, emphasizing thorough investigation and storytelling. The success of this documentary has contributed to the genre's evolution, pushing the boundaries of what documentaries can achieve in terms of both style and impact.
Conclusion
Three Identical Strangers explores the extraordinary tale of triplets separated at birth and reunited by chance. Their initial joy soon reveals darker undertones as the documentary uncovers unsettling details.
The film balances personal storytelling with investigative journalism, making it both compelling and thought-provoking. Key moments and interviews are used effectively to drive home the emotional and ethical impacts.
Viewers are left questioning the ethics of scientific experimentation and the implications of nature versus nurture. The documentary raises important questions about identity, family, and human psychology.
With its captivating narrative and powerful revelations, Three Identical Strangers remains a standout in the genre, engaging and challenging audiences to think deeply about the issues presented.
