Every few years, Hollywood gets déjà vu — two nearly identical movies hit theaters within months of each other. Think Armageddon and Deep Impact, A Bug’s Life and Antz, The Prestige and The Illusionist. How does this keep happening? Are studios copying each other, or is there something deeper going on behind the scenes?

In this episode, Gordy unpacks the phenomenon of “twin films” — rival movies that share the same plot, tone, and release window. From asteroid blockbusters to competing magician dramas, discover how parallel development, industry gossip, and herd behavior make Hollywood’s strangest coincidences almost inevitable.

If you’ve ever thought, “Didn’t I already see this movie?” — this episode will finally explain why.

#HollywoodHistory #FilmFacts #MovieTrivia #CinemaHistory #EntertainmentIndustry #moviefacts #twinfilms #hollywood #moviemaking #productioncompanies Music thanks to Zapsplat.

Sources:

• Purcell, E. (2020). Why Do We Have Twin Films? Counter Arts (Medium).
  

• The Guardian. (2017). Why Hollywood Keeps Making Twin Films.
  

• Variety. (1998). Armageddon vs Deep Impact: The Battle for Earth.
  

• The Hollywood Reporter. (2006). Magician Movies Square Off.
  

Box Office Mojo. (2024). Financial Data for Armageddon, Deep Impact, Antz, A Bug’s Life, The Prestige, The Illusionist, Olympus Has Fallen, White House Down.