Cheaper by the Dozen
Released on Wed, December 24, 2003
'Cheaper by the Dozen' centers around the large and loving, albeit chaotic, Baker family. The foundation of their unconventional household is parents Tom and Kate, who together manage the whirlwind of raising their twelve children. Their family life takes a significant turn when Tom receives a career-altering opportunity.
This opportunity presents itself in the form of a football coaching position at Northwestern University, a move that necessitates the entire Baker clan relocating to the bustling city of Chicago. This transition marks a considerable shift for everyone, requiring each family member to adapt to a new environment and lifestyle. Kate, who also works as a writer, also has to adjust to the family moving and her writing schedule and lifestyle changing.
Initially, the relocation to Chicago seems to be a success, with the family settling into their new home and routines. However, this period of equilibrium is short-lived as both Tom and Kate find themselves increasingly consumed by their respective careers. The demands of Tom's coaching job and Kate's writing responsibilities begin to pull them away from their children, leaving a void in supervision and guidance.
As the parents become more preoccupied, the Baker children, feeling the absence of parental attention and direction, start to experience boredom. This lack of engagement quickly manifests in mischievous behavior, as the kids begin to find creative and often disruptive ways to entertain themselves. The once harmonious household descends into a state of playful chaos.
The children's pranks and antics escalate as their parents remain absorbed in their professional lives. Their home becomes a playground for their growing mischief, pushing the limits of their freedom and testing the boundaries of acceptable behavior. What starts as innocent boredom evolves into a series of increasingly elaborate schemes.
Ultimately, the escalating chaos forces Tom and Kate to confront the consequences of their divided attention. They realize the importance of re-establishing a stronger presence in their children's lives and restoring a sense of balance within their family. The film then navigates the challenge of the parents trying to bring back structure, discipline, and quality family time amid the whirlwind of their careers.
Tom Welling
as Charlie Baker
Kevin G. Schmidt
as Henry Baker
Alyson Stoner
as Sarah Baker
Jacob Smith
as Jake Baker