The Parent Trap (1961)
Two identical twin sisters, separated at birth by their parents' divorce, are reunited years later at a summer camp, where they scheme to bring their parents back together. The girls, one of whom has been living with their mother and the other with their father, switch places after camp and go to work on their plan, the first objective being to scare off a gold-digger pursuing their father.
Details
Budget
$0
Rating
7/10 (382 votes)
Status
Released
Production Companies
Walt Disney Productions
About The Parent Trap
The 1961 film "The Parent Trap" is a family comedy centered on identical twin sisters who were separated at birth following their parents' divorce. They unexpectedly meet years later at a summer camp and form a plan to reunite their parents. The plot involves the sisters swapping places and working to remove a rival for their father's affection. This setup allows for a narrative that explores themes of family, reconciliation, and childhood schemes.
The film has a runtime of 129 minutes and is categorized under comedy and family genres. Keywords associated with the movie include "summer camp," "deception," "twins," and "twins separated at birth." Critical reception for "The Parent Trap" has been generally positive, with a Rotten Tomatoes score of 89% and a Metacritic score of 73/100. Its IMDb rating is 7.2 based on over 25,000 votes, and it holds a vote average of 7 out of 10 on TMDB from 382 votes.
Why you might be searching for The Parent Trap
People searching for "The Parent Trap" are often looking for the original film that popularized the identical twins switching places trope. The film's enduring appeal comes from its family-friendly comedy and the memorable portrayal of the two lead characters by a single actress. Individuals might recall general plot points about summer camp, parental divorce, and the twins' elaborate scheme to bring their family back together.
What reviewers are saying
One reviewer found the film thoroughly enjoyable, highlighting Hayley Mills' performance as infectious in both twin roles, noting the impressive camera work and editing that made the dual role convincing.
Read the full reviewThe dynamic between Brian Keith and Maureen O'Hara as the parents received praise, despite some character imperfections, adding to the film's positive elements.
Read the full reviewA commentator noted that the movie holds up surprisingly well, particularly due to Hayley Mills' strong performance, which made it difficult to tell she was playing both characters.
Read the full reviewAnother review points out Hayley Mills' skillful performance as both sisters, who initially can't stand each other at summer camp before discovering they are twins and devising a plan to reunite their parents.
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Common questions about finding and identifying movies
You can stream the 1961 film *The Parent Trap* on [Disney Plus](https://www.comingsoon.net/guides/news/1335417-the-parent-trap-1961-where-to-watch-stream-online). It's also available to buy or rent on platforms such as Amazon Video, Apple TV, and Fandango at Home.
No, *The Parent Trap* (1961) is not based on a true story. It is based on the 1949 German children's novel *Das doppelte Lottchen* (Lisa and Lottie) by Erich Kästner.
In the 1961 film *The Parent Trap*, twins Sharon and Susan succeed in their plan to reunite their divorced parents, Mitch and Maggie. After a camping trip where the twins prank Mitch's fiancée, Vicky, she has a tantrum and leaves, realizing marrying Mitch for his money isn't worth the trouble. Mitch and Maggie then realize they still love each other and get remarried, with their daughters as bridesmaids.
Yes, *The Parent Trap* (1961) is considered a delightful and entertaining classic by many viewers. Critics and audiences praise Hayley Mills' dual performance as the twins and the film's humor and charm, though some note its dated gender roles.