The Pretty One 2014

Identical twins Laurel and Audrey (Zoe Kazan) may look alike, but their personalities couldn’t be more different. Audrey embodies sophistication and confidence, while Laurel tends to be shy and socially awkward. This contrast is amplified by their life choices: Audrey enjoys a life of success and luxury, whereas Laurel stays home to support their widowed father (John Carroll Lynch) and his new fiancée, helping him recreate famous paintings.

At their birthday celebration, Audrey convinces Laurel to join her in the city, setting off a series of events that will irrevocably change their lives. In anticipation of this new adventure, Laurel undergoes a drastic haircut, mirroring her sister’s look. As they begin their journey together, tragedy strikes when they are involved in a horrific car accident. When Laurel awakens in the hospital, she suffers from post-traumatic amnesia and is initially oblivious to her true identity. It is only later that she learns of Audrey’s tragic death.

The morning of what was intended to be Laurel’s funeral becomes an emotional turning point, prompting Laurel to adopt Audrey’s identity. Embracing this new persona, she returns to the city, stepping into her sister’s previous role as a real estate agent. Here, she meets Basel (Jake M. Johnson), Audrey’s former tenant, who is baffled by this new, warmer version of Audrey, in stark contrast to the distant person he once knew.

As Laurel navigates life in her sister’s shoes, she discovers that Audrey had been entangled in a troubled relationship with Charles (Ron Livingston) prior to the accident. Her growing connection with Basel and her sister’s colleague, Claudia (Frankie Shaw), sparks a journey of self-discovery, but it simultaneously raises doubts about her identity and true motives. The budding romance between Laurel and Basel flourishes, but an innocent error causes a ripple effect that leads to unforeseen consequences.

In a dramatic twist, Laurel unintentionally introduces Charles to her boss, Edith, failing to mention he is her ex. This connection leads to dire repercussions as Laurel is promptly fired from her job. Amidst this chaos, Basel proposes to Laurel, denoting he has had feelings for her since they first met. However, Laurel realizes that his affections are tied to her portrayal of Audrey, rather than her genuine self, which leads her to confess the truth. This revelation shatters their budding romance, leaving Basel heartbroken and Laurel in turmoil over her web of lies.

Returning home, Laurel finds solace in her father’s understanding and support as she reveals the truth of her impersonation. Although this revelation shocks him, he finds relief in knowing that the sisterly bond remains intact. As another funeral is held — this time for Audrey — it becomes a poignant reflection on the life Laurel has been leading.

Encouraged by Claudia’s wisdom and her father’s steadfast support, Laurel begins to confront her insecurities about being the lesser sister. With her own paintings representing her authentic self, she musters the courage to return to the city and confront her feelings for Basel. Fortunately, upon her return, she discovers that he still harbors feelings for her, despite the earlier heartbreak.

In a heartwarming climax, Laurel’s honesty and commitment eventually win Basel back, culminating in a tender kiss that opens the door to a future filled with hope and rekindled love.