The Double

The Double is a 2013 British black comedy and drama-thriller film, directed by Richard Ayoade, based on Fyodor Dostoevsky's novella of the same name. The protagonist, Simon James, is played by Jesse Eisenberg who effectively brings out the poignancy and desperation of this character. Other main characters are played by Mia Wasikowska and Wallace Shawn whose performances contribute richly to the atmospheric setup of this feature.

Jesse Eisenberg holds the centre stage with a double role. He plays not only the character of pitiable Simon James, an insignificant man ignored by everyone around him, but also the alter ego James Simon - a confident, charming, and manipulative version of himself. The unique storyline explores the themes of identity, relevance, and competition, providing a thought-provoking experience for viewers.

Set in a dystopian universe, the film's mise-en-scène creates a chilling and depressing atmosphere brought out brilliantly by an undefined, dystopian city filled with retro-futuristic architecture. The mix of modern technology and antiquated aesthetics - reminiscent of film noir and German expressionism - adds an ineffable quality that moves between the repressive banality of old-school bureaucracy and the cold, intrusive technology of modern surveillance.

Simon James, characterized as a timid, unnoticed, and undervalued data processor at a corporate firm is continuously overlooked and underappreciated despite his hard work and commitment. Jesse Eisenberg captures the essence of a person who, despite being competent and diligent, eventually becomes a ghost-like entity in a world that barely acknowledges his existence. He is constantly overshadowed in personal and professional life. His lack of assertiveness adds to his invisibility, and his love interest, Hannah, played by the enchanting Mia Wasikowska, is oblivious to his pining for her.

The mundane life of Simon takes a dramatic turn with the entry of James Simon: his doppelgänger, also portrayed by Eisenberg. This character is distinct, dynamic, and the complete opposite of Simon. He is brash, manipulative, and an instant hit with his colleagues and superiors. Most intriguingly, he appears to be visually identical to Simon, yet nobody else seems to notice, or worse, care about the uncanny likeness between the two.

The exceptionally performed double-act by Eisenberg showcases an intense internal struggle wherein he competes with his own double. To the outside world, they might be identical, but the way they are perceived emphasizes how personality can overshadow presence. James Simon becomes the embodiment of all that Simon yearns to be but isn’t – assertive, charismatic, acknowledged.

Mia Wasikowska, as Hannah, gracefully builds a character who is aloof yet observant, adding to the intensity of Simon's perceived invisibility. She is wooed by the charming James, completely unaware of Simon's feelings for her.

On the other side, Wallace Shawn brings a solid performance as Mr. Papadopoulos, the oblivious and indifferent boss of Simon and James. His character supports the satirical undertones of the movie, oblivious to the profound psychological struggle within Simon yet appreciating James for the same abilities.

Visually striking and buoyed by strong performances, The Double is a compelling portrayal of a man grappling with his own insignificance and identity in a warped microcosm of society - one that dissects the existential dread of non-existence. The movie uses black comedy, psychological drama, and agonizing suspense to exquisitely comment on the drudgery of a bureaucratic life, the battle for individualism and the strong desire to be seen.

In conclusion, The Double is a hypnotic movie with an atmospheric film noir setting wherein the lives of two identical yet vastly distinct men intertwine. It's a layered psychological study of identity and invisibility impeccably brought to life by Ayoade's gripping direction and Eisenberg’s remarkable performance. It's an eerie, hauntingly compelling film that examines the importance of identity and acknowledgment in society. From its dark humor to its savvy social commentaries, The Double stands as a shining example of dysphoric, black comedy done right.