Introduction: The phrase "cheaper by the dozen" has become synonymous with the notion that buying in bulk can save you money. But when it comes to movies, particularly those under the "Cheaper by the Dozen" franchise, the question arises: Is it truly cheaper by the dozen? With multiple iterations of this family-centric comedy, how do these films rank in terms of quality, nostalgia, and overall entertainment value? In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into the various "Cheaper by the Dozen" movies, provide a ranking of the best to the worst, and share opinions on each film’s contribution to the series.
The History of Cheaper by the Dozen
The "Cheaper by the Dozen" franchise began as a 1948 film adaptation of the book by Frank Bunker Gilbreth Jr. and Ernestine Gilbreth Carey. The story was based on the real-life experiences of the Gilbreth family, who raised 12 children while managing a busy household and a career. The film was a charming, wholesome look at family dynamics, and it struck a chord with audiences.
However, it wasn’t until the 2000 remake, starring Steve Martin and Bonnie Hunt, that the franchise truly found its modern audience. The updated version of the story introduced a more chaotic, contemporary family environment, filled with sibling rivalry, parental challenges, and plenty of comedic moments. This led to a sequel, "Cheaper by the Dozen 2," which continued the story with more wild antics and family fun.
Cheaper by the Dozen Rankings
Let’s now rank the films in the "Cheaper by the Dozen" franchise from best to worst, taking into account the legacy of the original film, the comedic elements of the remake, and how well the sequels held up to the standards set by their predecessors.
1. Cheaper by the Dozen (2003)
The 2003 remake is easily the standout film in the franchise. Starring Steve Martin and Bonnie Hunt, this movie brought new life to the series while retaining the heartwarming themes of the original. The blend of family chaos, heartfelt moments, and slapstick comedy made it a huge hit at the box office. Audiences fell in love with the Baker family’s chaotic, yet loving, dynamic, and the ensemble cast, which included the likes of Tom Welling, Hilary Duff, and Piper Perabo, helped elevate the film. It’s a perfect mix of family-friendly entertainment and relatable parenting struggles, making it a fan favorite.
2. Cheaper by the Dozen 2 (2005)
The 2005 sequel to the hit 2003 film is a worthy follow-up, though it doesn't quite capture the magic of the first. This time, the Bakers face off against another large family, led by Eugene Levy’s character, in a competitive summer vacation. The film continues the theme of sibling rivalry and family bonding but ramps up the physical comedy and absurd scenarios. While it may not have the emotional depth of the first film, "Cheaper by the Dozen 2" is still an enjoyable ride that has its share of funny moments. The cast remains charming, and the addition of some new characters keeps things fresh.
3. Cheaper by the Dozen (1950)
The original 1950 film holds a special place in cinema history. While it may not have the star power or modern appeal of the 2003 version, its old-fashioned charm and wholesome narrative still resonate today. The film captures the essence of the Gilbreth family’s dedication to raising their 12 children with discipline and love. Though the pacing may feel slow by today’s standards, it’s a testament to the enduring strength of the family unit and the challenges of large families. It’s worth watching for those who enjoy classic films and nostalgic comedies.
4. Cheaper by the Dozen (2022)
The most recent addition to the "Cheaper by the Dozen" franchise, released on Disney+, takes a different approach by presenting a more diverse, modern family. This version focuses on the Baker family, who are trying to balance the challenges of raising a large family with the stresses of modern life. Although the movie attempts to update the series for today’s audience, it struggles to recapture the magic of the earlier films. The pacing is uneven, and while the diverse cast and themes of inclusivity are notable, the film lacks the heart and humor that made the original remakes so memorable. It’s not a terrible film, but it feels like it’s trying too hard to be relevant without capturing the essence of the series.
Opinions on the Franchise: Why Some Love It, Others Don’t
The "Cheaper by the Dozen" franchise is beloved by many, but it’s also been a source of criticism. One of the biggest draws to the series is its ability to make audiences laugh while also tugging at their heartstrings. It’s relatable, showing the ups and downs of family life in a lighthearted way. However, the series is often criticized for its over-the-top slapstick comedy, which can sometimes feel forced or exaggerated. Additionally, the handling of parental roles and family dynamics sometimes leans into clichés, making it feel like a recycled version of a classic family comedy.
Despite these critiques, the "Cheaper by the Dozen" films have maintained a loyal fanbase. The humor is often silly, but it’s part of the charm. It’s a series that doesn’t take itself too seriously, and for many, that’s a huge part of its appeal. The family-friendly nature of the movies also makes them perfect for watching with children, which only adds to their nostalgic value.
Experiences Related to "Cheaper by the Dozen"
The "Cheaper by the Dozen" movies have influenced not only the comedy genre but also popular culture in general. For many, these films represent a time when family-friendly comedies were lighthearted and easy to watch. Growing up with a large family myself, the chaos of the Baker household was something I could relate to. My siblings and I often joked about how our family could easily rival the Bakers in terms of sheer numbers, though we weren’t nearly as coordinated as they were in their adventures.
Watching the 2003 and 2005 films with my own children has been a tradition in our household. They’ve come to enjoy the humor and the exaggerated family dynamics, and they always ask for more whenever we finish watching. While we may not have 12 children like the Bakers, we’ve come to appreciate the moments of chaos and love that these films encapsulate. They serve as a reminder that no matter how messy or complicated life gets, family is always there to help you through it.
For others, however, the "Cheaper by the Dozen" series has been a mixed experience. Some people see it as just another run-of-the-mill family comedy, while others appreciate the nostalgia it brings. The over-the-top moments can sometimes feel exhausting, and not everyone is a fan of the physical humor. Still, there’s no denying that these films have become a staple of family entertainment, with a level of recognition that’s hard to match.
Conclusion
The "Cheaper by the Dozen" series has provided audiences with a fun and chaotic look at large family dynamics. From the original 1950 film to the modern Disney+ version, each iteration brings its own unique take on family life, with varying degrees of success. While the 2003 and 2005 films are by far the most beloved, each film in the series offers something for different audiences. Whether you’re looking for nostalgia, slapstick comedy, or heartwarming family moments, there’s a "Cheaper by the Dozen" film for you.