Synopsis: Cheaper By The Dozen is a 2003 family comedy-drama film directed by Shawn Levy. It tells the delightful story of the Baker family, parents Tom and Kate, and their 12 children. The film explores the ups and downs of raising such a large family and the challenges they face when their lives are turned upside down.
Tom Baker, played by Steve Martin, is a college football coach who is married to Kate, portrayed by Bonnie Hunt. Together, they have 12 children, each with their own unique personalities. Nora (Piper Perabo), Charlie (Tom Welling), Lorraine (Hilary Duff), Henry (Kevin G. Schmidt), Sarah (Alyson Stoner), Jake (Jacob Smith), Mark (Forrest Landis), Jessica (Lilian Mumy), Kim (Morgan York), Mike (Blake Woodruff), Kyle (Brent Kinsman), and Nigel (Shane Kinsman) complete the Baker family.
Having 12 children is both a blessing and a challenge for Tom and Kate. Kate decides to write a book about their family, which becomes a huge success. As the film progresses, Kate is offered a national book tour, leaving Tom to take care of the kids on his own. What follows is a series of chaotic and heartwarming events that test the Baker family’s ability to stick together.
Tom’s juggling act begins when he enlists the help of his eldest daughter, Nora, and her reluctant boyfriend, Hank (Ashton Kutcher), to babysit the younger children. However, Hank’s distaste for kids causes tension within the family. The mischievous younger children play a prank on Hank that leads to a series of comedic events. The fun-loving chaos continues as the children make Charlie’s frustration known when he is kicked off the school football team and forced to move away from his hometown.
As the story unfolds, Tom realizes he cannot handle the children on his own, leading him to involve members of his football team in childcare. This decision proves to be disastrous as chaos ensues, and a neighbor’s party is ruined. Tom’s relationship with his children is strained, and secrets are revealed when he discovers that his daughter Nora had invited her boyfriend Hank to sleepover.
Cheaper By The Dozen highlights the importance of family, communication, and understanding. It shows how a large family can face challenges together and come out stronger. As the Bakers navigate through their daily lives and the difficulties that arise, they learn the true value of love and unity.
In conclusion, Cheaper By The Dozen is a heartwarming comedy-drama that will warm your heart and leave you with a smile. With a wonderful cast, engaging storyline, and relatable themes, this film is a delightful watch for the whole family. Join the Baker family on their rollercoaster journey as they learn that the greatest treasure in life is the love and support of family.
