Diving into Dozen-Dom: Everything You Ever Wanted to Know About 'Cheaper by the Dozen' (and Maybe a Few Things You Didn't)
Ever wondered how families do it? The ones that seem to grow overnight? If you’ve thought about this while forgetting the stove, then get ready. We’ll dive into the chaotic world of the Baker family from 'Cheaper by the Dozen'. Trust me, with twelve kids, they went through a lot of bread.
This isn’t your average family movie. It’s a charming, slightly wild, heartwarming view of the messy art of raising kids. Forget your neat lawns and regular schedules. We face the delightful chaos of a home where disorder is a permanent part of life. Grab your popcorn, maybe a stress ball, and let’s explore 'Cheaper by the Dozen'.
Decoding the Dozen: Unraveling the Movie Plot and Story
Let’s get to the heart of 'Cheaper by the Dozen': the plot. This movie chronicles the Baker family led by Tom and Kate Baker. They are the captains of a large ship called 'family life'.
Synopsis: A Baker's Dozen and a Career Collision
Tom and Kate Baker made a bold decision to have twelve kids. Yes, twelve. Tom, the supportive dad, has put his coaching career on hold, guiding a high school football team. Kate, in turn, left journalism for the busyness of parenting a small army. She stays home but writes a parenting memoir. Who better to do so?
Things change when opportunity knocks. Tom receives an offer for his dream coaching job in Evanston, Illinois. Meanwhile, a publisher wants to release Kate's parenting wisdom. Suddenly, the Bakers are moving from Midland, Indiana to Evanston. Just a casual Tuesday for a family of fourteen, right?
To complicate matters, Kate's book becomes popular, leading her on a book tour. Tom is left to manage the household. He loves his children, truly. However, dealing with twelve kids, upset about relocation, leads to chaos. It doesn’t just happen; it waltzes in, sets up shop, and never leaves.
Conflict: Navigating the Labyrinth of a Large Family
The primary conflict in 'Cheaper by the Dozen' is not an external foe but rather the scale of their family. Picture it: twelve distinct personalities under one roof. It’s an ecosystem more than just a family.
Simple tasks for other families become monumental efforts. A vacation? No spontaneous packing here; it requires military-level planning. Each outing, meal, and grocery run is a dance of coordination and compromise. Not to forget laundry—mountains of it. Enough to make anyone weep.
The movie humorously portrays these everyday challenges, amplifying them for comedic effect. It's about personality clashes, resource negotiations, and the exhaustion involved in tracking everyone. It’s a funny yet relatable depiction of large family life.
Ending: Reunions, Resolutions, and a Dash of Destruction
They even hold a small funeral for Mark's pet frog Beans, who dies unexpectedly. This touching moment highlights their unity amid chaos. It’s a bittersweet scene that beautifully represents the Bakers.
Tom decides to quit his college coaching job. He understands no career success compensates for family neglect. This speaks volumes about his commitment to Kate and the kids. The movie wraps up with a joyful Christmas scene. The family celebrates, having learned lessons in communication and unity. Yet even that holiday isn’t free of disaster—the chandelier dramatically crashes down during their celebration. A normal Baker Christmas!
To conclude, Kate's book becomes a bestseller. Amid chaos and constant madness, the Bakers find accomplishment. They are messy and loud but undeniably a family ready to face life’s challenges—bumps and bruises included.
Meet the Baker Bunch: Cast of Characters and Their Entourage
Now we must discuss the heart and soul of 'Cheaper by the Dozen': the characters. With twelve kids, the cast resembles a small village of personalities. Each Baker child brings their own chaos and charm to the family dynamic. Let’s break down this delightful dozen from oldest to youngest.
The Baker Kids: A Numerical Order of Chaos
Understanding all of the Baker children is like learning reindeer names—it takes time, but it’s rewarding once you get it. Here’s the lineup:
- Nora (22): The oldest, played by Piper Perabo, is somewhat responsible yet exasperated. She tries to keep her life organized.
- Charlie (17/18): Portrayed by Tom Welling, he is athletic and carries teenage swagger with rebelliousness.
- Lorraine (15/16): Hilary Duff brings Lorraine to life. She's fashion-conscious and dramatic, seeking popularity.
- Henry (12): Kevin G. Schmidt plays tech-savvy Henry, known for pranks and inventions.
- Sarah (11): Alyson Stoner features Sarah, the competitive tomboy unafraid to take risks.
- Jake (10): Jacob Smith plays sensitive Jake, often caught up in family chaos but possessing a kind heart.
- Mark (9): Forrest Landis embodies Mark, the quirky animal lover often seen with a pet frog.
- Jessica (8): Liliana Mumy plays Jessica, energetic and adventurous twin.
- Kim (8): Morgan York portrays Kim, Jessica's mischievous twin sister.
- Both equally energetic yet a bit more introspective than Jessica. Together, they create chaos.
- Mike (7): Steven Anthony Lawrence portrays Mike, the goofy, food-loving younger brother. He often provides comic relief and lands in silly situations.
- Kyle (5): Blake Woodruff plays Kyle, one half of the five-year-old twins. He is the younger one with Nigel, adding adorable chaos.
- Nigel (5): Brent Kinsman brings Nigel alive as Kyle's twin. He's cute and mischievous, making them a dynamic duo.
Tom Welling: More Than Just a Baker Dad
Let's focus on Tom Welling as Charlie Baker, the cool older brother. Welling was 27 during the filming of 'Cheaper by the Dozen', despite playing a teenager. His laid-back charm makes Charlie a relatable figure amidst family chaos.
Tom Welling: A Man of Many Backgrounds
Off-screen, Welling is a mix of German, Polish, Hungarian, Slovak, Austrian, and British descent. He has striking green eyes. Welling identifies as Christian but keeps his beliefs private. Some topics remain personal.
Real-Life Welling: A Warm and Witty Persona
What is Tom Welling like in real life? Reports describe him as genuinely nice. Fans say he is warm, humorous, and caring. He appreciates fans and coworkers. On the 'Talkville' podcast, he often praises former colleagues and guest stars, showing he is thoughtful.
Relationship Rundowns: Nora and Charlie's Entanglements
Love and relationships are part of family dynamics even with the Bakers. Let’s look at the older Baker siblings’ romantic lives, Nora and Charlie.
Nora's Romantic Journey: From Bud to Baby
Nora is the eldest Baker daughter and starts the movie with Bud McNulty, played by Jonathan Bennett. Bud is her husband and recently promoted Vice President at an advertising firm, prompting their move to Houston. In 'Cheaper by the Dozen 2', she is pregnant with their first child.
Charlie's Complicated Love Life: Beth and Anne
Charlie's love life leans toward drama. At the start of the first movie, he dates Beth. By 'Cheaper by the Dozen 2', she is gone. Enter Anne Murtaugh, played by Jaime King, daughter of the Bakers’ vacation rival, Jimmy Murtaugh. They spark a summer romance.
Spotlight on Sarah Baker: The Sporty Sister
Let’s highlight Sarah Baker, the sporty sister played by Alyson Stoner. In the first movie, Sarah is eleven years old and ages to thirteen in the sequel. Stoner brings vibrant energy to Sarah, making her memorable. She embodies the competitive spirit of the family.
The Kinsman Twins: From Baker Mayhem to Wisteria Lane
Who could forget Kyle and Nigel Kinsman? The twins played by Brent and Shane Kinsman were synonymous with twin trouble in the early 2000s. After 'Cheaper by the Dozen', they acted in 'Knocked Up' in 2007 and appeared in 'Desperate Housewives' from 2004 to 2011. They stepped back from acting post-2011.
Lights, Camera, Location! Unpacking the Filming Spots of 'Cheaper by the Dozen'
Did you ever watch a movie and wonder about its filming? If 'Cheaper by the Dozen' sparked that curiosity, you're in luck. Let's explore its filming locations from suburban homes to lakeside retreats.
Stony Lake, Ontario: The Lakeside Setting of 'Cheaper by the Dozen 2'
For 'Cheaper by the Dozen 2', filmmakers chose Stony Lake in Ontario, Canada. This beautiful lake provided the backdrop for the Baker family's summer vacation and chaotic rivalry with the Murtaughs. The cabins and outdoor vibe were filmed at Stony Lake.
Midland, Indiana... or is it Illinois? The Baker Family's Fictional Roots
The movie starts with the Bakers in Midland, Indiana. However, some plots mention Midland, Illinois. This presents geographic confusion in Baker lore. The setting serves as a small town where Tom coaches at a local college, embodying small-town America.
Evanston, Illinois: From Small Town to Suburbia
After landing a coaching job at Evanston University, the Bakers move from Indiana to Evanston, Illinois. This real suburb north of Chicago becomes their new backdrop. The move signifies Tom's career growth and transitions to a more suburban life.
Football Fields of California: Gridiron Action on the West Coast
Interestingly, football field scenes were not filmed in Illinois or Indiana. The first field represents Tom's high school job at El Camino College in Torrance, California. The Evanston University football scenes were also filmed in Pasadena, near the Rose Bowl stadium.
357 South Lorraine Boulevard, Los Angeles: The Baker Family Home
The iconic house serving as the Bakers' home sits at 357 South Lorraine Boulevard in Los Angeles. Yes, it is a real house you can visit! It perfectly represents a large family home that can (barely) hold twelve kids. A visit offers a glimpse into Baker chaos.
Is it Kid-Friendly Chaos? Assessing the Appropriateness of 'Cheaper by the Dozen'
When it comes to family movies, an important question arises: is it appropriate for families? 'Cheaper by the Dozen' is generally seen as a family-friendly film, but let's analyze its content more closely.
Inappropriate Content? Keeping
it (Mostly) Clean
'Cheaper by the Dozen' is mostly clean. The film avoids inappropriate content. There is a scene where Nora, the older daughter, is in bed with her husband. They are just sleeping. There are no scandalous scenes. Kids might find their parents' kisses awkward. Overall, it is mostly suitable for all ages.
Age Appropriateness: Comic Chaos for Most Ages
'Cheaper by the Dozen' is suitable for many ages. Common Sense Media rates it 8+. This rating applies to the 2022 remake. The 2003 version carries a similar rating. Some younger kids might find certain scenes mildly disturbing. The slapstick is comic but might worry very young children.
Most kids, especially elementary school ones, will enjoy 'Cheaper by the Dozen.' It is a fun, lighthearted family movie that avoids serious topics. Many moments involve mild peril played for laughs. These scenes are humorous but may confuse sensitive little ones.
From Real Life to Reel Life: The True Story Roots of 'Cheaper by the Dozen'
'Cheaper by the Dozen' has true story roots. The tale is based on the real Gilbreth family. Yes, a real family inspired the movie. Let’s explore the background behind this iconic story.
Yes, It's (Loosely) Based on a True Story
The original 'Cheaper by the Dozen' came from a book published in 1948. Authored by Frank Bunker Gilbreth Jr. and Ernestine Gilbreth Carey, it is semi-autobiographical. It shares their childhood in a family with twelve children. The movies draw inspiration from the Gilbreth family, but with Hollywood twists.
Meet the Gilbreths: Efficiency Experts with a Dozen Kids
The real Baker parents were Frank and Lillian Gilbreth. They were efficiency pioneers and parents of twelve. Married in 1904, they also ran a management firm called Gilbreth, Inc. They combined parenting with their expertise in optimizing daily life. Imagine managing mornings for twelve kids!
Their family became famous as the inspiration for the film and franchise. While the stories are fictionalized, they reflect the life of a unique family. The Gilbreths offer a view of life behind the comedy.
Real-Life Efficiency, Reel-Life Comedy
The movies exaggerate the comedy. However, the real Gilbreth lives are fascinating. Lillian Moller Gilbreth invented several everyday items. Some include the foot-pedal trash can and refrigerator shelves with compartments. While films center on humor, the real story highlights their achievements.
The Gilbreth Legacy: Still Going Strong
So, what about the Gilbreth kids? Frank B. Gilbreth Jr. and Ernestine Gilbreth Carey were part of the twelve siblings. The children were born from 1905 to 1922. Tragically, Frank Gilbreth Sr. died young, just shy of 56. Luckily, Lillian lived long, and many children survived into the 2000s.
The Authors Behind the Book: Frank Jr. and Ernestine
The first book was written by two of the siblings. Frank Bunker Gilbreth Jr. and Ernestine Gilbreth Carey co-authored this memoir. They shared experiences growing up as part of such a large family. Their book became a bestseller, translated into fifty languages, and adapted in multiple films.
Mary Gilbreth: A Real-Life Tragedy, a Minor Role in Fiction
The real Gilbreth family faced tragedy too. Mary Gilbreth, the second child, passed away at only five years old. In the movies, she is shown as the third child with fewer lines. The change dramatizes the story but deviates from reality for entertainment.
Beyond the Dozen: Sequels and Cinematic Siblings of 'Cheaper by the Dozen'
If you loved 'Cheaper by the Dozen,' there's more! A sequel exists called 'Cheaper by the Dozen 2.' Many films depict fun family dynamics similar to this one.
'Cheaper by the Dozen 2': Vacation Rivalry and Lakeside Lunacy
'Cheaper by the Dozen 2,' released in 2005, reunites the Baker family. This time, they expect a relaxing lakeside vacation. But “relaxing” rarely describes the Baker family.
Things go wrong quickly when they get a shabby cabin. Tom, ever optimistic, starts DIY repairs that lead to laughter. The real trouble comes from his rival, Jimmy Murtaugh, and his big family. What was meant to be peaceful turns into a wacky rivalry. The chaos offers plenty of Baker-style fun.
Cinematic Cousins: Movies in the 'Cheaper by the Dozen' Family Tree
Fans of 'Cheaper by the Dozen' might enjoy these films about family chaos. Each has its mix of humor and heart:
- Daddy Day Care (2003): Eddie Murphy runs a daycare center, leading to kid-centered chaos.
- Yours, Mine & Ours (2005): A widowed man and woman with 18 kids means a full house!
- The Pacifier (2005): Vin Diesel as a nanny protecting children, blending action with comedy.
- A Cinderella Story (2004): Hilary Duff in a modern adaptation featuring teen romance.
- New York Minute (2004): Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen’s fun adventure set in New York City.
These films embody humor and family stories that fit any movie night.
The Heart of the Dozen: Message and Themes of 'Cheaper by the Dozen'
Behind all the comedy
and chaos, 'Cheaper by the Dozen' shares heartfelt messages. It’s not just about laughter; it’s about the important things in life.
Family, Family, Family: The Core Message
Distilling the main message of 'Cheaper by the Dozen,' we find "family." The film emphasizes family bonds and prioritizing loved ones above all else. Tom Baker lives by: “If I screw up raising my kids, nothing I achieve matters!” This expresses that family comes first. No success can replace neglecting your own.
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