A man without attachments or responsibilities suddenly finds himself with an abandoned baby and leaves for London to try and find the mother. Eight years later after he and his daughter become inseparable Gloria’s mother reappears.
Two Is a Family (French: Demain tout commence) is a 2016 French comedy-drama directed by Hugo Gélin, featuring Omar Sy in the lead role. The film is a remake of the 2013 Mexican film Instructions Not Included (No se aceptan devoluciones).
The story centers on Samuel (Omar Sy), a carefree bachelor and party-loving man living on the French Riviera. His life takes an unexpected turn when Kristin (Clémence Poésy), a former fling, leaves her three-month-old daughter, Gloria, in his care, claiming that Samuel is the father. Unprepared for fatherhood and unable to locate Kristin, Samuel decides to raise Gloria on his own. He relocates to London, where he works as a stuntman, and over the next eight years, he becomes a devoted father to Gloria, who believes her mother is a secret agent.
The narrative takes a dramatic turn when Kristin reappears, now living in New York with her boyfriend, Lowell (Ashley Walters). She wishes to reclaim custody of Gloria, leading to a legal battle. The film explores themes of parenthood, responsibility, and the complexities of family dynamics.
Main Themes in Two Is a Family
- Unconventional Parenthood: The film delves into the challenges and rewards of unexpected parenthood. Samuel’s transition from a carefree bachelor to a dedicated father highlights the transformative power of love and responsibility.
- Identity and Belonging: Gloria’s belief in her mother’s fabricated backstory and her eventual discovery of the truth underscore the theme of identity. The film examines how individuals form their sense of self and the impact of family revelations on personal identity.
- Sacrifice and Selflessness: Samuel’s journey reflects the sacrifices parents make for their children. His willingness to put Gloria’s needs above his own desires illustrates the selflessness inherent in parenthood.
- Legal and Ethical Dimensions of Custody: The custody battle introduces themes of legal rights, ethics, and the complexities of determining a child’s best interests. The film prompts viewers to consider the moral implications of such decisions.
Impact of Two Is a Family
Upon its release, Two Is a Family received mixed reviews from critics. On Rotten Tomatoes, the film holds an approval rating of 38%, indicating a generally unfavorable reception.
Critics praised Omar Sy’s performance, noting his ability to convey deep emotion and humor. However, some reviews criticized the film for its predictable plot and reliance on clichés. Despite the mixed critical reception, the film achieved commercial success, grossing approximately $32.8 million worldwide against a budget of $17.5 million.
7 Reasons to Watch Two Is a Family
- Omar Sy’s Captivating Performance: Omar Sy delivers a compelling portrayal of Samuel, capturing the character’s evolution from a carefree bachelor to a devoted father. His performance adds depth and authenticity to the film, making it a standout aspect of the narrative.
- Emotional Storytelling: The film skillfully balances humor and drama, creating an emotionally resonant experience. Viewers are taken on a journey through the highs and lows of Samuel and Gloria’s relationship, evoking a range of emotions.
- Exploration of Family Dynamics: Two Is a Family offers a nuanced look at the complexities of family relationships, particularly in non-traditional setups. It provides insight into the challenges and joys of forming a family under unconventional circumstances.
- Cultural Perspective: As a French film, it offers a different cultural perspective on themes of parenthood and family, providing viewers with a fresh narrative style and storytelling approach.
- Strong Supporting Cast: The film features a talented supporting cast, including Clémence Poésy as Kristin and Gloria Colston as young Gloria. Their performances complement Sy’s, adding depth to the story and enhancing its emotional impact.
- Cinematic Quality: Directed by Hugo Gélin, the film boasts high production values, with well-executed cinematography and a fitting musical score that enhances the viewing experience.
- Thought-Provoking Themes: The film delves into themes of identity, sacrifice, and the meaning of family, prompting viewers to reflect on their own perceptions of parenthood and relationships.
How Will You Feel After Watching Two Is a Family?
After watching Two Is a Family, viewers are likely to experience a mix of emotions. The film’s heartfelt portrayal of an unconventional father-daughter relationship may evoke feelings of warmth and empathy. The challenges faced by Samuel and Gloria, coupled with the film’s comedic elements, provide a balanced viewing experience. While some may find the plot predictable, the emotional depth and performances are likely to leave a lasting impression. Overall, the film offers a touching exploration of family bonds and personal growth.
