Big Business 1988
"Mixed up at birth, two sets of twins finally meet their match."
Jim Abrahams' 1988 comedy masterpiece *Big Business (1988)* spins a hilarious tale of mistaken identity that stretches from the 1940s to the neon-soaked 1980s.
Director: Jim Abrahams
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Big Business (1988) about?
Set in the 1940s, a bumbling nurse mixes up two sets of identical twins at birth—one born to a poor local family, the other to wealthy travelers. Decades later, the mismatched siblings unwittingly collide in a tale of identity, class, and hilarious chaos.
Who directed Big Business?
Jim Abrahams, the director behind *Airplane!* and *Hot Shots!*, brings his signature zany humor to this heartfelt farce.
Who stars in Big Business?
The film stars comedy legends Bette Midler and Lily Tomlin as the mismatched twins, with Fred Ward as the lovable working-class hero and Edward Herrmann as the snobbish villain.
Is Big Business (1988) worth watching?
With its infectious humor and standout performances, *Big Business (1988)* is a hidden gem of '80s comedy. It's a fun, feel-good movie that balances slapstick antics with genuine heart—perfect for fans of witty, character-driven humor.
How long is Big Business?
The movie runs for 97 minutes.
🎥 Trailer
About Big Business (1988) — A Comedy Classic of Mistaken Identity and Small-Town Shenanigans
Jim Abrahams' 1988 comedy masterpiece *Big Business (1988)* spins a hilarious tale of mistaken identity that stretches from the 1940s to the neon-soaked 1980s. In a sleepy town where nothing ever happens, a sleepwalking nurse accidentally swaps two sets of identical twins at birth—one pair born to a struggling local family, the other to wealthy out-of-towners passing through. Fast-forward four decades, and the mismatched siblings are about to collide in a whirlwind of slapstick chaos, corporate greed, and small-town secrets. With razor-sharp wit and heartfelt charm, this fish-out-of-water farce explores class divides, sibling rivalry, and the absurdity of fate, all wrapped in the golden glow of classic Americana.
Bette Midler and Lily Tomlin light up the screen as the mismatched twins, delivering side-splitting performances that balance razor-edged humor with unexpected emotional depth. Fred Ward adds rugged charm as the blue-collar hero caught in the middle, while Edward Herrmann's aristocratic villainy and Michele Placido's scene-stealing charm round out a cast firing on all cylinders. Whether you're a fan of sharp comedies or just love a good underdog story, *Big Business (1988)* is a feel-good romp that feels as fresh today as it did in the '80s.