Twins (1988)

Ivan Reitman’s 1988 comedy Twins is a quintessential odd-couple film that draws its humour and heart from the wildly mismatched pairing of Arnold Schwarzenegger and Danny DeVito. As a high-concept comedy with an unlikely emotional core, Twins is both a product of its time and a charming example of late-80s Hollywood’s experimental side, when studios were more willing to gamble on quirky premises — especially when bankable stars were attached.

Plot Summary

The film’s premise is as far-fetched as it is amusing: Julius (Schwarzenegger) and Vincent (DeVito) are twin brothers, the result of a secret genetic experiment designed to produce a perfect human being. Julius is the successful result — tall, strong, highly educated, and virtuous. Vincent, on the other hand, is the “leftover” — short, cynical, a small-time hustler with debts and a sleazy lifestyle. The two are separated at birth and raised in different environments. When Julius discovers Vincent’s existence, he sets off to find him, leading to a journey of discovery, brotherhood, and plenty of fish-out-of-water scenarios.

Performances

What makes Twins work is the chemistry between its leads. Schwarzenegger, then mostly known for action roles like The Terminator and Predator, dives into comedy with a refreshing innocence. His portrayal of Julius is wide-eyed and endearing — a man with childlike wonder navigating the harsh realities of modern life. Danny DeVito, as always, brings a sharp-tongued, streetwise energy to the role of Vincent, creating a dynamic that both contrasts and complements Schwarzenegger’s persona.

Together, they’re a surprisingly effective duo. DeVito handles the comedic heavy lifting while Schwarzenegger plays the straight man, but both actors show range and timing that elevate the material. Their relationship develops believably, and by the film’s end, you actually believe in their bond, no matter how absurd the premise.

Direction and Tone

Director Ivan Reitman (Ghostbusters, Stripes) balances the film’s goofy sci-fi backstory with a grounded emotional arc. The comedy is broad but rarely mean-spirited. There are plenty of physical gags and situational humour, especially as Julius attempts to adapt to the real world and protect his wayward brother, but there are also genuine moments of tenderness. Reitman knows how to pace a buddy comedy, and even when the jokes don’t always land, the momentum of the film keeps it enjoyable.

Themes and Impact

At its heart, Twins is about nature versus nurture, sibling bonds, and the idea that family can be found in the most unexpected places. While the science-fiction element is thinly sketched and mainly serves to set up the comedy, the film doesn’t pretend to be anything more than a lighthearted romp. Its heart is in the right place.

The movie was a commercial hit, in part due to the novelty of Schwarzenegger doing comedy and the contrast between him and DeVito. It also opened the door for Schwarzenegger to explore more comedic roles in the 1990s (Kindergarten Cop, Junior), proving his versatility and audience appeal outside action films.

Legacy

While Twins may not be regarded as a comedy classic in critical circles, it holds a nostalgic place in pop culture and remains one of the more memorable comedies of the 1980s. Its premise is instantly recognizable, and the film continues to enjoy a cult following. Plans for a sequel (Triplets) have floated around for years, underscoring its lasting popularity.

Conclusion

Twins is a funny, feel-good film that thrives on its central pairing. It’s silly and sweet in equal measure, and while it doesn’t break new comedic ground, it offers genuine laughs and a surprising amount of heart. If you’re looking for a movie that embraces its absurdity and delivers warmth with its humour, Twins still delivers more than three decades later.

Rating:

A charming odd-couple comedy powered by the unlikely but delightful pairing of Schwarzenegger and DeVito.