The Silent Twins: the true story behind Letitia Wright’s fascinating new movie

Writer Andrea Siegel has based the script on investigative journalist Marjorie Wallace’s book, The Silent Twins – and it’s an absolutely fascinating true story.

Who were The Silent Twins?

The Silent Twins book and film follow the true story of identical twins June and Jennifer Gibbons, who were entirely silent and only communicated with each other through a private language. 

After being referred to a succession of therapists, they were sent to separate boarding schools, but were soon reunited after becoming entirely withdrawn during the time apart. 

Back together, they started to write novels, poems and plays. But in their teenage years, they started to commit small crimes, which led them to being admitted to Broadmoor Hospital where they stayed for 11 years.

Jennifer died, aged 29, while the pair were transferred to a clinic in Wales. Although there was no evidence of drugs or poison in her system, her unusual death remains a mystery.

According to Wallace’s book, the sisters had a longstanding agreement that if one died, the other must begin to speak and live a normal life. June, who is still alive, has since given interviews and continued to live near her family home in Wales. 

It’s a gripping psychological true story that explores sisterly bonds, race and mental health. And it will no-doubt be a fascinating re-telling on the big screen. With Bafta Rising Star winner Wright and emerging actor Lawrance taking the cast leads, it’s definitely going to be one to watch.

Images: Getty, Amazon