Common Sense Media Review
By Andrea Beach
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Silly '80s mismatched-sibling story has profanity, violence.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 13+?
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Twins
What's the Story?
Genetically engineered to be a perfect physical, intellectual, and spiritual human, Julius (Arnold Schwarzenegger) grew up on an isolated tropical island with only his mentor for companionship. Everything he knows about the rest of the world comes from books. Now 35, he learns that he has a fraternal twin and decides to leave the island, find his long-lost brother, and finally learn what it is to have a family. When he does meet Vincent (Danny DeVito), Julius is undaunted by their differences and by Vincent's shady past. As the two get to know each other, they learn more surprises about their parents and decide to hit the road to find out who's been lying about their past all these years -- and why.
Is It Any Good?
The premise of TWINS, uniting long-lost brothers who are complete opposites, can appeal to any age, and when it was released in theaters it was a big hit. But with an all-adult cast in adult situations, its appeal to today's kids and teens is limited. Fans of the Terminator will enjoy seeing Schwarzenegger play the innocent, which he does creditably. DeVito is as lovably irascible as ever. The story's a bit predictable, but director Reitman brings a slight skew to the proceedings that give this mismatched-buddy story fresh appeal.
There are a few mild laughs here and there, but if feels like Reitman was unsure whether to play the violence for laughs or not, with the result being that most of the physical jokes don't land. Twins is a mildly entertaining choice for older kids who can handle some strong language and small amounts of blood, but if you're looking for belly laughs, keep looking.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about favorite buddy movies. What are some other movies you've seen where people who are opposites learn to get along and even love each other? How does this movie compare?
Sometimes Julius and Vincent seem to have a psychic connection. Do you think that's a real thing, especially with twins? Have you ever felt that kind of connection with someone?
What is the bond between siblings? What makes it so special? If you have siblings, how would you describe your bond?
Movie Details
- In theaters : December 8, 1988
- On DVD or streaming : July 6, 2010
- Cast : Danny DeVito , Arnold Schwarzenegger
- Director : Ivan Reitman
- Studio : Universal Pictures
- Genre : Comedy
- Topics : Adventures , Family Stories ( Siblings )
- Run time : 107 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- Last updated : October 1, 2025
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