James Sweeney (born 1990) is an American filmmaker and actor. He has written, produced, directed and starred in the comedy-dramas Straight Up (2019) and Twinless (2025).
Life and career
Sweeney grew up in Alaska. He is gay and Korean American. His first break in the entertainment industry was when he was hired as a production assistant on the reality show Sarah Palin's Alaska.
In 2019, Sweeney directed, wrote, and starred in Straight Up, which had its world premiere at Outfest. The film was released in February 2020 by Strand Releasing. Prior to, Sweeney made a proof of concept short film based upon the script Normal Doors for 20th Digital Studio. Sweeney earned a nomination for Independent Spirit Award for Best First Screenplay.
Sweeney's film Twinless, which he directed and wrote, premiered at the 2025 Sundance Film Festival. He also starred in the film. Reviewing the film for Variety, Peter Debruge wrote, "On just his second film, the gifted young helmer [Sweeney] demonstrates a sophisticated sense of framing, pace and exquisitely uncomfortable dramatic tension". The film won the Audience Award Dramatic at Sundance.
Filmography Year Title Credited as Role Notes Director Writer Producer Actor 2019 Straight Up Todd 2025 Twinless Dennis
Awards AwardYearCategoryWorkResult Astra Film Awards2026Best Indie FeatureTwinlessIndependent Spirit Awards2026Best FeatureBest ScreenplayNew York Film Critics Online2025Best ScreenplayPalm Springs International Film Festival2025Directors to WatchSan Francisco Bay Area Critics Circle Awards2025Special Citation for Independent CinemaSeattle International Film Festival2025Best DirectorBest FilmSundance Film Festival2025Audience Award – U.S. DramaticGrand Jury Prize – U.S. Dramatic
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