A new model for approach processes of two unequal or equal sized drops or bubbles is proposed based on a parallel film concept and energy conservation analysis. This model can estimate the interaction time and the maximum film area for an approach and the effects of Weber number, size ratio and curvature of film. It also gives a good explanation why the effective virtual mass coefficient in the model of Chesters and Hofman (1982) changes with the size ratio of drops or bubbles.