It Takes Two (1995)
Synopsis:
When identical 9-year-olds Amanda and Alyssa meet at summer camp, they discover they come from completely different worlds—Amanda is an orphan while Alyssa lives a privileged life with her wealthy father, Roger. Despite their contrasting backgrounds, the look-alike girls hatch a plan to switch places and shake up their lives. But their scheme goes beyond simple mischief when they decide to play matchmaker, hoping to bring together Alyssa's dad and Diane Barrows, the compassionate social worker who cares for Amanda. As the girls navigate their switched identities, they work to create the perfect match between two adults who might just be meant for each other. This family-friendly comedy follows the twins' well-intentioned scheming as they attempt to unite the people they care about most.
Where To Watch: It Takes Two
Parental Feedback
It Takes Two delivers a lighthearted, family-friendly experience built around mistaken identity and matchmaking schemes. Parents can expect a gentle, predictable pace with broad physical comedy and heartwarming moments centered on themes of family, belonging, and kindness. The tone remains consistently upbeat and optimistic, with minimal tension or conflict that might unsettle younger viewers, making it an accessible choice for families seeking uncomplicated entertainment.
Why Kids Should Watch It Takes Two
This story offers several positive elements that resonate with young audiences seeking feel-good entertainment.
The central friendship between Amanda and Alyssa celebrates creativity, loyalty, and working together toward a common goal. Their partnership demonstrates how children can take initiative and solve problems through collaboration and mutual support.
The narrative emphasizes the importance of family connections and finding where you belong. Both girls learn valuable lessons about appreciating the people who care for them and recognizing love in different forms.
Themes of kindness and compassion run throughout, particularly through the character of social worker Diane Barrows. The story shows how empathy and understanding can bridge different backgrounds and circumstances.
The comedy remains accessible and age-appropriate, relying on situational humor and the charm of the twin switch premise. Young viewers will enjoy the playful deception and the girls' clever schemes without encountering inappropriate content.
Why Kids Shouldn't Watch It Takes Two
Parents may want to consider a few aspects before viewing with younger or more sensitive children.
The entire plot revolves around deception and lying, as the girls switch places and manipulate the adults around them. While presented as harmless fun, some parents may wish to discuss why dishonesty—even with good intentions—can create problems and hurt feelings.
The portrayal of the orphanage setting and Amanda's status as an orphan might raise questions or concerns for children. Parents should be prepared to address themes of loss, foster care, and what happens to children without permanent families.
The villainous character Clarice Kensington is depicted as shallow and unkind, which could reinforce stereotypes. Her treatment and the way she's ultimately dealt with might warrant conversation about judging others and appropriate responses to difficult people.
Verdict: Parent Approved
It Takes Two earns approval as wholesome family entertainment that celebrates friendship, kindness, and the importance of finding your place in a loving family.
What Parents Should Know About It Takes Two
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Does this Movie model positive behavior that my child can understand and repeat? | Yes, the story demonstrates friendship, loyalty, compassion, and working together, though the central deception may require parental context about honesty. |
| Does this Movie include emotional moments my child might find confusing or intense? | Mild emotional moments arise around Amanda's orphan status and desire for a permanent family, but these are handled gently and resolve positively. |
| Does this Movie show consequences for unkind or unsafe behavior? | Yes, the antagonist Clarice faces consequences for her selfish behavior, while the protagonists' deception ultimately leads to positive outcomes that reward their good intentions. |
| Does this Movie reinforce helpful social skills like sharing, apologizing, or teamwork? | Yes, Amanda and Alyssa demonstrate strong teamwork, collaboration, and mutual support as they work together to achieve their matchmaking goals. |
| Will my child come away with any clear moral or message? | Yes, the story emphasizes that family is about love and connection rather than wealth or status, and that kindness and compassion matter more than material advantages. |
The Overall Sentiment From Parental Feedback
Parents generally view this as safe, nostalgic family entertainment that works well for elementary-aged children. Many appreciate the wholesome themes of friendship and family, noting that the PG rating accurately reflects the gentle content with no significant violence, language, or mature themes. Some parents mention using the deception element as a teaching opportunity to discuss honesty and consequences. The predictable plot and dated production values are noted but rarely seen as drawbacks for the target audience. Overall, families report this as an enjoyable, low-stakes viewing experience that sparks conversations about kindness, belonging, and what makes a family.
Official It Takes Two Trailer
Why Kids Love It Takes Two
The heart of the fun is watching two identical 9-year-olds pull off the ultimate switch at summer camp, fooling everyone around them with quick thinking and perfectly timed disguises. Amanda and Alyssa scramble through close calls and awkward situations as they pretend to be each other, dodging suspicious adults and covering their tracks with silly jokes and fast talk.
Their matchmaking mission turns into a series of pranks and mishaps, with the girls scheming to bring Roger and Diane together while keeping nosy Clarice from ruining everything. Kids love seeing the duo outsmart the grown-ups, whether they're staging "accidental" meetings or creating chaos to stop a wedding.
The teamwork between Amanda and Alyssa drives every twist, as they solve puzzles on the fly and help each other navigate their swapped lives. Their unexpected friendship means constant collaboration—whispering plans, signaling across rooms, and rescuing each other from tight spots.
From summer camp shenanigans to fancy mansion escapades, the girls race against time to fix the problem they've created. Every scene crackles with their energy as they juggle double identities, prove that smart problem-solvers can tackle anything, and show how making new friends can lead to the wildest adventures.