Two of a Kind

A film that will put a smile on your face. Robby Benson is perfect as a mildly retarded young man; and the late, great George Burns is a delight as his grandfather. If you get a chance to view this film, you won't be sorry. (The only thing that really hurts this film is a sappy, early-80s musical score.)

This is a story of a beautiful relationship between grandfather (Papa Ross) and grandson (Noel). Papa Ross had been written off by his family and was doomed to a bleak future in the nursing home. After all, his son and daughter-in-law had a retarded son to care for. Taking care of both would be too much for them. Papa Ross was getting weaker and weaker, and had become quite uncommunicative. Noel loved Papa Ross and refused to give up on him. Taking what he learned in his life-skills classes and what he knew about Papa Ross' life in previous years, he helped his beloved grandpa rediscover joy and become active again. Each helped the other, arriving at the story's fantastic conclusion.

As the mother of a son with a similar disability, I especially appreciate Robbie Benson's portrayal of Noel as a warm, loving, incredibly sweet human being. He must have done extensive preparation for this role because he did it exceedingly well. Robbie, if I had the power, I would give you an Emmy for this film.

Movie making doesn't get any better than "Two Of A Kind!" This is one of the most deeply moving films I have ever had the the privilege to watch! The chemistry between Robby Benson and George Burns is magnificent! The acting is so phenomenal, I'm going to locate any film Robby Benson has ever made! I miss George Burns, and I have never seen him in a drama before! At first, I almost didn't recognize him! He was that good!

This is a story about two men on the fringes of American society: an elderly man in a nursing home who is suffering from a deep depression and at the same time, being over medicated; and his mildly retarded grandson, who also happens to be very clever and tough! He cuts through all the B.S. and gets the job done! He is truly a man!

"Two Of A Kind" will remind anyone who has forgotten, in a concrete way, what the power of love and a strong will can accomplish! Lets hope Hollywood starts making more films like this one! And isn't it about time "Two of A Kind" is released on DVD? I think it's very important more people see this subversive film!

If I could give this a 15 out of 10 I would. It is that good. As other reviewers stated all the actors did an incredible amazing job. Sadly the other film by the same name is what comes up when you "Google" "Two of a Kind," that film in my opinion was "ok" maybe a 6 out of 10?

There is definitely humor, but you have to wait for it. And what Noelie says to Grandpa when he first sees him after a long time of not being allowed to is permanently engraved on my heart, silly I know, but that just the way it is.

So if your looking for amazing, fantastic, incredible storyline and acting, a movie that will stay with you forever, this one is it.

While it's true that Robby Benson and George Burns did a remarkable job in this movie, Cliff Robertson and Barbara Barrie also deserve much applause. They both demonstrated so well the awkwardness of a father who loves his family but is having a difficult time making that love understood, and a mother who is dealing with a disabled child the best way she knows how but is unwilling to accept his growing independence. Their portrayals are true-to-life. I know. I've been there myself.