Review of The Parent Trap (1998) by Paul P — 26 Nov 2012

Forget all the comparisons to the original--this film stands on its own. While not entirely devoid of flaws, this remake the of 1961 original is a classy adaptation, with incredible direction, production values, and an exceptional cast. You truly believe that each actor is their character. Unlike most films of its genre, The Parent Trap features a fully developed story, and it takes its time setting up the premise and letting it unfold. Lohan is pitch perfect in the lead role, with only minor acting slips that are easily forgivable. The chemistry between Richardson and Quaid feels genuine and is truly memorable. My personal favorite thing about this movie is Academy-Award nominee Alan Silvestri's outstanding score. "Where Dreams Have No End" is beautifully orchestrated, along with "We Actually Did It." All the other (decidedly more famous) songs feel perfectly appropriate to the scenes to which they play over.

OK, one comparison to the original: this remake minimizes the screen time of certain secondary and tertiary characters seen quite often in the original. Reverend Mosby, a scene-stealer in the original, is mentioned only once on the other end of a telephone call and is never seen at all. Wise decision? In my opinion, yes. This remake instead spends its time developing the major characters who are integral to the plot, and as a result, we see characters that truly grow within the story. And in the end, they are all we really need.