Ever wonder what it's like to manage a household brimming with twelve kids? The "Cheaper by the Dozen" movies, particularly the 2003 original and its 2022 reimagining, offer a hilarious and heartwarming glimpse into the chaotic lives of the Baker family. This Cheaper by the Dozen Movie Review: A Big Family Comedy will explore why these films continue to resonate with audiences, touching on the relatable themes of family, career, and the delicate balance of managing both. We'll dive into what makes the original a beloved classic and how the modern remake updates the story for a new generation, and whether it’s worth the watch! Prepare for a rollercoaster of laughter, heartwarming moments, and maybe even a touch of nostalgia as we revisit this iconic family comedy, and decide which version comes out on top . This is the Cheaper by the Dozen Movie Review: A Big Family Comedy .
The Cheaper by the Dozen movies, while comedies, also touch on deeper issues. They explore the challenges of balancing personal ambitions with family responsibilities. The original film highlighted Kate and Tom Baker's struggles as they juggled their careers with raising twelve children, showcasing the strain it placed on their marriage and the individual needs of each child. The remake tackles similar themes but through a more modern lens, addressing issues like blended families, racial diversity, and the pressures of social media. Both films cleverly use humor to explore these complex dynamics, making them relatable and thought-provoking for viewers.
The target audience for a Cheaper by the Dozen Movie Review: A Big Family Comedy is broad. It caters to those who grew up with the original film and are curious about the remake. It also appeals to families looking for a lighthearted movie night option. More generally, the target reader is someone interested in family comedies and films that explore the dynamics of large families, balancing career and family, and social issues in a lighthearted way. The review should provide insights into the humor, heart, and messages of both films, helping viewers decide if they are worth watching.
In conclusion, the Cheaper by the Dozen Movie Review: A Big Family Comedy reveals a timeless appeal rooted in relatable family dynamics and humor. Whether you are drawn to the nostalgic charm of the original or the modern relevance of the remake, these films offer a glimpse into the joys and challenges of big family life. The films’ ability to tackle complex themes with heart and humor makes them enduring family favorites.
A Tale of Two Dozens: Comparing the Original and the Remake
The "Cheaper by the Dozen" franchise has gifted us with two distinct cinematic experiences: the beloved 2003 original starring Steve Martin and Bonnie Hunt, and the 2022 Disney+ remake featuring Gabrielle Union and Zach Braff. While both films center around the chaos and love within a large family, they differ significantly in their approach to storytelling, character development, and social commentary.
Nostalgia vs. Modernity: Setting the Stage
The original "Cheaper by the Dozen" thrived on its slapstick humor and heart-warming portrayal of a traditional American family adapting to sudden changes. Tom Baker, a college football coach, secures his dream job, prompting the family's relocation from a small town to a bustling city. This move disrupts the children's lives and puts a strain on the family dynamics, creating numerous comedic situations.
The 2022 remake offers a more contemporary perspective. The Baker family is a blended, multiracial family running a breakfast restaurant. Their story revolves around the pressures of expanding their business, navigating family relationships, and addressing issues of race and class in a rapidly changing society. The remake intentionally sets out to represent a more diverse and inclusive version of the American family.
Humor and Heart: What Makes Them Funny?
The humor in the 2003 film largely stems from physical comedy and exaggerated situations. Think frogs in the vents, dye in the hair, and a disastrous appearance on a national talk show. The film relies on relatable moments of parental frustration and sibling rivalry to generate laughs. The heart of the film lies in the Baker family's unwavering love and support for one another, even amidst the chaos.
The remake adopts a more subtle and nuanced approach to humor. It relies on situational comedy and witty dialogue, often poking fun at modern trends and social issues. The film also explores the emotional complexities of a blended family, highlighting the challenges of co-parenting and building strong relationships between step-siblings.
Character Dynamics: Who Stands Out?
In the original film, each Baker child is given a distinct personality, although some are more developed than others. We see the struggles of the older children as they navigate adolescence, the mischief of the younger ones, and the parents' attempts to maintain order and sanity. The focus is primarily on Tom and Kate Baker, with their individual career aspirations and the strain of balancing them.
The remake provides a more equitable distribution of screen time among the children, allowing viewers to connect with a wider range of characters. The film delves into each child's individual passions and struggles, from athletics and academics to social activism and artistic expression. The parents' roles are also more collaborative, with a stronger emphasis on teamwork and shared responsibility.
Diving Deeper: Key Differences and Similarities
While both "Cheaper by the Dozen" films share the same core concept, they present vastly different interpretations of the big family dynamic. The following sections will delve into some key aspects that differentiate the two versions:
Social Commentary: A Mirror to Society
The original film largely steers clear of overt social commentary, focusing instead on the universal themes of family, career, and personal growth. The challenges faced by the Bakers are primarily related to logistics and personal dynamics rather than broader societal issues.
The remake, on the other hand, embraces social commentary, addressing issues of race, class, and cultural identity. The film explores the complexities of raising a multiracial family in a society that is not always accepting, as well as the challenges of navigating different socioeconomic backgrounds. This added layer of social awareness makes the remake a more relevant and thought-provoking film for modern audiences.
Parental Roles: Shifting Dynamics
In the original "Cheaper by the Dozen," Tom Baker is portrayed as a somewhat traditional father figure, focused on his career and struggling to connect with his children on an emotional level. Kate Baker, while loving and devoted, often feels overwhelmed by the demands of raising twelve children.
The remake presents a more egalitarian view of parenting. Both Paul and Zoey Baker actively participate in their children's lives, sharing responsibilities and supporting each other's aspirations. The film also highlights the importance of communication and compromise in a healthy co-parenting relationship.
Humor Style: Then and Now
As previously mentioned, the humor in the original film is largely physical and slapstick-driven. The remake leans more towards situational comedy and witty dialogue, often relying on observational humor to generate laughs. While both styles can be effective, the choice of humor reflects the changing tastes of audiences over time.
The Heart of the Story: Universal Themes
Despite their differences, both "Cheaper by the Dozen" films share a common thread: the importance of family. Both films celebrate the love, support, and resilience that can be found within a strong family unit. They also explore the challenges of balancing individual needs with the needs of the family as a whole.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about "Cheaper by the Dozen"
Navigating the world of big family comedies can be tricky. Here are some frequently asked questions that often arise when discussing "Cheaper by the Dozen". This Cheaper by the Dozen Movie Review: A Big Family Comedy should answer some of those!
General Questions
Q: What is "Cheaper by the Dozen" about?
A: Both versions of "Cheaper by the Dozen" center around a large family navigating the challenges of everyday life. The original follows the Bakers as they move to a new town for the father's job, while the remake focuses on a blended family running a breakfast restaurant and dealing with social issues. In both cases, hilarity ensues!
Q: Are the movies based on a true story?
A: Yes, both films are loosely based on the autobiographical book "Cheaper by the Dozen" by Frank Bunker Gilbreth Jr. and Ernestine Gilbreth Carey, which recounts their experiences growing up in a large family in the early 20th century. However, the films take significant liberties with the source material for entertainment purposes.
Q: Are there any other "Cheaper by the Dozen" movies besides the 2003 and 2022 versions?
A: Yes, there was a black and white film made in 1950 of the same name. The Cheaper by the Dozen Movie Review: A Big Family Comedy is primarily talking about the 2003 and 2022 versions.
Questions About the Original (2003)
Q: What makes the original "Cheaper by the Dozen" so popular?
A: The original film's popularity stems from its relatable portrayal of family dynamics, its slapstick humor, and its heart-warming message about the importance of love and support. The cast, led by Steve Martin and Bonnie Hunt, delivers strong performances that resonate with audiences of all ages.
Q: Is the original "Cheaper by the Dozen" appropriate for all ages?
A: Yes, the original film is generally considered family-friendly. While there are some moments of mild peril and mischief, there is nothing overly offensive or inappropriate for younger viewers.
Questions About the Remake (2022)
Q: How does the remake differ from the original?
A: The remake differs from the original in several key aspects, including its more diverse cast, its focus on social issues, and its more nuanced approach to humor. The remake also presents a more egalitarian view of parenting and family dynamics.
Q: Is the remake as funny as the original?
A: Whether or not the remake is as funny as the original is subjective and depends on individual preferences. Some viewers may appreciate the remake's more subtle and observational humor, while others may miss the slapstick and physical comedy of the original.
Questions About Both Movies
Q: Which "Cheaper by the Dozen" movie is better?
A: The answer to this question is subjective and depends on individual preferences. Some viewers may prefer the nostalgic charm and slapstick humor of the original, while others may appreciate the remake's more modern and diverse portrayal of family life. Ultimately, the best "Cheaper by the Dozen" movie is the one that you enjoy the most!
Q: Where can I watch "Cheaper by the Dozen"?
A: The 2003 version is available to rent or purchase on various streaming platforms, and the 2022 version is available exclusively on Disney+.
Behind the Scenes: Production and Casting
Understanding the production and casting choices behind the "Cheaper by the Dozen" films can provide valuable insights into why these movies have resonated with audiences.
The Original (2003)
The 2003 film was directed by Shawn Levy, known for his work on family-friendly comedies like "Night at the Museum" and "Date Night." The casting of Steve Martin and Bonnie Hunt as Tom and Kate Baker was crucial to the film's success. Martin's comedic timing and Hunt's warm and relatable presence created a believable and endearing parental duo.
The child actors were also carefully selected to represent a diverse range of personalities and talents. Actors like Piper Perabo, Tom Welling, and Hilary Duff brought their own unique charm to the roles of the older Baker siblings, while the younger actors added a touch of innocence and mischief.
The Remake (2022)
The 2022 remake was directed by Gail Lerner, known for her work on television comedies like "Black-ish" and "Modern Family." The casting of Gabrielle Union and Zach Braff as Paul and Zoey Baker reflected a desire to create a more diverse and inclusive representation of the American family.
The remake also features a talented ensemble cast of child actors, each bringing their own unique perspectives and experiences to their roles. The film's casting choices reflect a commitment to representing a wider range of racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic backgrounds.
Production Challenges and Triumphs
Both "Cheaper by the Dozen" films faced their own unique production challenges. The original film required careful coordination of a large cast of child actors, as well as the creation of elaborate physical comedy sequences. The remake faced the challenge of updating the story for a modern audience while also addressing complex social issues.
Despite these challenges, both films were ultimately successful in capturing the heart and humor of the "Cheaper by the Dozen" story. Their success can be attributed to the dedication and talent of the cast and crew, as well as their commitment to creating a film that resonates with audiences of all ages.
Reflecting on the Legacy: Why These Films Matter
The "Cheaper by the Dozen" movies, both the original and the remake, have left a lasting impact on popular culture. Their enduring appeal lies in their ability to entertain and resonate with audiences of all ages, offering a glimpse into the chaotic and loving world of a big family.
Relatability and Escapism
One of the key reasons for the films' success is their relatability. While most viewers may not have twelve children, they can likely identify with the challenges of juggling family responsibilities, career aspirations, and personal relationships. The films also offer a form of escapism, allowing viewers to vicariously experience the joys and adventures of a large and loving family.
Celebrating Family Values
Both "Cheaper by the Dozen" films celebrate the importance of family values, such as love, support, and resilience. They remind us that family is not always perfect, but it is always worth fighting for. The films also emphasize the importance of communication, compromise, and understanding in maintaining strong family relationships.
Promoting Diversity and Inclusion
The remake of "Cheaper by the Dozen" takes the franchise a step further by promoting diversity and inclusion. The film's diverse cast and its exploration of social issues make it a more relevant and thought-provoking film for modern audiences. The remake serves as a reminder that families come in all shapes and sizes, and that all families deserve to be celebrated and respected.
Final Thoughts: Choosing Your "Dozen" Adventure
So, which "Cheaper by the Dozen" is right for you? Do you crave the nostalgic charm and slapstick comedy of the original, or the modern relevance and social commentary of the remake? Ultimately, the choice is yours. Both films offer a unique and entertaining perspective on the challenges and rewards of big family life.
If you're looking for a lighthearted and nostalgic trip down memory lane, the original "Cheaper by the Dozen" is a perfect choice. If you're looking for a more modern and diverse representation of family life, with a touch of social commentary, the remake is definitely worth a watch.
No matter which "Dozen" you choose, you're sure to enjoy a laugh-filled and heart-warming adventure that celebrates the enduring power of family. Don't forget to grab some popcorn, gather your loved ones, and settle in for a movie night that will leave you feeling grateful for the joys and blessings of family. Remember, this Cheaper by the Dozen Movie Review: A Big Family Comedy is here to help you make the best choice for your viewing pleasure!