Two Times Lotte (1950)
A heartwarming German family comedy about twin girls separated by divorce who swap lives to reunite their parents.
Two Times Lotte - Movie Information
- Original Title: Das doppelte Lottchen
- Release Year: 1950
- Directed by: Josef von Báky
- Type: Movie
- Genres: Family, Comedy
- Runtime: 1h 45m
- Original Language: German
- Spoken Languages: German
- Release Date (Theatrical): December 1, 1950 (Austria), December 22, 1950 (Germany)
- Alternative Titles: Двойняшки Лоттхен (RU)
- Production Companies: Carlton-Film, Bavaria Film
- Production Countries: Germany
Two Times Lotte - Plot
Two nine-year-old girls — rude Luise Palfy and respectful shy Lotte Körner — meet on a summer camp. Apart from their different hair-do, they look alike. They have never seen each other before, but soon find out that they are identical twins. It turns out that their parents divorced, each keeping one of the girls. They decide to trade places at the end of the summer. Lottie curls her hair, Lisa braids hers, and both go off to where they have never been before. The adventure begins.
Where to Watch Two Times Lotte
Looking for where to watch Two Times Lotte?
Compare all viewing options available in your region on JustWatch ↗
Two Times Lotte - Cast & Crew
Director(s)
- Josef von Báky
Main Cast
- Erich Kästner
- Antje Weisgerber
- Peter Mosbacher
- Jutta Günther
- Isa Günther
- Senta Wengraf
- Hans Olden
- Auguste Pünkösdy
- Maria Krahn
- Gustav Waldau
Writers
- Erich Kästner
Producers
- Günther Stapenhorst
Two Times Lotte - FAQs
What is Two Times Lotte about?
Two Times Lotte follows identical twin girls who discover each other at summer camp, having been separated since birth when their parents divorced. They secretly swap lives — one heading to Vienna, the other to Munich — and hatch a plan to bring their family back together. It's a warm, witty adventure full of heart.
Is Two Times Lotte based on a true story?
Not a true story, but it's based on something just as beloved — Erich Kästner's classic 1949 novel Das doppelte Lottchen. Kästner was one of Germany's most celebrated children's authors, and this story became one of his most enduring works, inspiring numerous adaptations around the world, including Disney's The Parent Trap.
Is Two Times Lotte the inspiration for The Parent Trap?
Yes, absolutely. Disney's The Parent Trap (1961) and its 1998 remake starring Lindsay Lohan are both directly based on Erich Kästner's novel Das doppelte Lottchen, the same source material as this 1950 German film. Two Times Lotte was actually the first screen adaptation of that story, predating the Disney version by over a decade.
Who directed Two Times Lotte?
Josef von Báky directed the film. An experienced German filmmaker, von Báky was known for his ability to blend warmth and visual storytelling, making him a fitting choice for Kästner's beloved children's tale. His direction gives the film a light, playful energy that has helped it endure as a classic of German family cinema.
Does Erich Kästner appear in the film?
Yes — Erich Kästner himself appears in the film as the narrator, a charming meta touch that connects the story directly to its author. Kästner also wrote the screenplay, making this a remarkably personal adaptation. It's a delightful nod to the source material and gives the film an extra layer of literary authenticity.
Who are the main actors in Two Times Lotte?
The twin girls Lotte and Luise are played by real-life sisters Jutta Günther and Isa Günther, a wonderful casting choice that adds genuine chemistry. Antje Weisgerber plays their mother, and Peter Mosbacher portrays their father. Erich Kästner, the novel's author, also appears as the film's narrator.
How long is Two Times Lotte?
Two Times Lotte runs for 1 hour and 45 minutes. For a family film from 1950, that's a generous runtime that allows the story plenty of room to breathe — developing the twins' personalities, their summer camp discovery, and the delightful chaos that follows when they swap places and try to reunite their parents.
What are some films similar to Two Times Lotte?
If you enjoyed Two Times Lotte, The Parent Trap (1961) is the most obvious companion — it's based on the same novel. Twin Dragons (1992) and Big Business (1988) also play with mistaken-identity twin comedy. For more family-friendly fun, Switching Goals (1999) and Winning London (2001) offer a similar lighthearted spirit.
More About Two Times Lotte
Explore further details about Two Times Lotte on these trusted resources.