Adaptation

"Adaptation," a metafictional film that blurs the lines between reality and fiction, centers on Charlie Kaufman, a real-life screenwriter who is struggling to adapt the non-fiction book "The Orchid Thief" by Susan Orlean into a screenplay. As he grapples with writer's block and self-doubt, he becomes increasingly obsessed with the challenge of adapting the seemingly unadaptable material.

During Charlie's struggles with the adaptation process, the film also introduces us to his fictional twin brother, Donald Kaufman. Unlike Charlie, Donald is outgoing, confident, and has aspirations of becoming a screenwriter himself. Donald decides to take a screenwriting seminar and follows unconventional and clichéd writing advice, much to Charlie's chagrin.

Thought-provoking and inventive, "Adaptation" challenges conventional storytelling and offers a glimpse into the creative struggles of a writer. Its complex narrative structure and brilliant performances by Nicolas Cage in the dual role of Charlie and Donald Kaufman - as well as Meryl Streep as Susan Orlean, - cements its position as one of the best movies about twins.

Release: 2002

Stars: Nicolas Cage, Meryl Streep, Chris Cooper

Rotten Tomatoes Score: 91%