Bring on the nostalgia!
Whether you prefer the 1961 classic featuring Hayley Mills or the 1998 remake with Lindsay Lohan, The Parent Trap tells a timeless tale of twin girls switching places to bring their divorced parents back together. At summer camp, the sisters discover each other for the first time and devise a plan to reunite their family, giving them a chance to bond with the parent they barely know. The fun and mischief of their switcheroo got us thinking about other films that deliver similar family-centric adventures.
As Roger Ebert noted in his review of the 1998 film, “the story is ageless, and so is the gimmick.” The theme of characters swapping roles is a classic plot device that resonates through time. If you enjoyed the antics of The Parent Trap, you’ll relish the movies on this list.
Movies Like The Parent Trap
- It Takes Two (1995)
Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen star as Amanda and Alyssa, two twins who meet at summer camp. They concoct a plan to save their guardians from making poor choices, and naturally, they have to switch places to pull it off. - Corrina, Corrina (1994)
Whoopi Goldberg plays a nanny who forms a deep bond with a young girl, Molly, who is grappling with the loss of her mother. As Corrina helps mend the fractured relationship between Molly and her father, the warmth of family is beautifully captured. - 17 Again (2009)
Mike O’Donnell (Matthew Perry) gets a second chance at life when he becomes 17 again, portrayed by Zac Efron. He realizes that perhaps his previous life wasn’t so bad after all, highlighting the importance of family and friendship. - The Game Plan (2007)
Dwayne Johnson stars as a football star who unexpectedly discovers he has a daughter, Peyton. As he juggles his career and parenting, the movie humorously explores the challenges of fatherhood. - She’s the Man (2006)
Amanda Bynes takes on dual roles in this hilarious adaptation of Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night, where she disguises herself as her twin brother to navigate high school life and romance. - Are We There Yet? (2005)
Nick (Ice Cube) is a bachelor who finds himself reluctantly involved with two kids trying to get their mother (Nia Long) back with their dad. The comedic dynamics between them make for a fun family film. - Matilda (1996)
Matilda is a gifted young girl who uses her psychic powers to stand up against her neglectful family and an evil headmistress, ultimately finding her place with a loving teacher.
Other Fun and Sentimental Films
- The Perfect Man (2005)
- Blended (2014)
- Monte Carlo (2011)
- The Princess Switch (2018)
- The Little Rascals (1994)
- Cheaper By The Dozen (2003)
- Life-Size (2000)
- Curly Sue (1991)
- Freaky Friday (2003)
- The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants (2005)
- Maid In Manhattan (2002)
- Mrs. Doubtfire (1993)
- Father of the Bride (1991)
- Yours, Mine & Ours (2005)
- Ramona and Beezus (2010)
- Overboard (1987)
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Summary
If you’re a fan of The Parent Trap, this list offers a variety of delightful movies featuring family dynamics, mischievous antics, and heartwarming moments. Each film brings its own flavor, ensuring that there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

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