Lotsa laughs, good one-liners, Steve Martin shines

I've got to admit, I was a little torn on whether to buy this movie or not. My kids were dying to see it, everyone in the neighborhood had grabbed a copy for themselves, and the Steve Martin imitations were hysterical. After a while, I couldn't help myself---I had to go out and buy it.

Popping the movie in the DVD player, we all sat down for an entertaining evening watching the tube. And sure enough, Cheaper by the Dozen kept its promise of being a crowd-pleaser. Without a doubt, we'll watch it again and again.

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Plot: Super-coach dad and want-to-be-writer mom are working hard to achieve career success. When dad (Steve Martin) is offered the job of a lifetime, he can't wait to accept. Suddenly, he's coach of his alma-mater... appearing on TV... and loved by everyone. The only catch is that the family has to move.

The lure of the job is considerable: gigantic house, huge yard, and great careers. But the kids can't believe they are leaving their home. They work hard to fit in (well, most of them do), but it's not always easy.

Meanwhile, want-to-be-writer Mom's manuscript is accepted! She's beside herself with excitement, but torn about the possibility of leaving her kids for two days. And when the two days stretches a little longer, Mom's still more concerned. But Dad and the kids promise to hold the fort down.

But who knew that Mom had been so successful at home?
As soon as she leaves, chaos erupts. Dad tries his best, but the kids are at their worst. It's classic Steve Martin comedy as he reacts to the antics of his rambunctious children. When it's 12 to 1, Dad doesn't stand a chance!

The Cast:
Steve Martin: This movie features a great cast, including the king of comedy, Steve Martin. Once again, he reaches the height of humor---like no one else can.

Bonnie Hunt: Actually, I have never been a Bonnie Hunt fan, and tend to turn off anything that she appears in. But this movie didn't give me a choice, so I tried to grin and bear it. But much to my surprise, she played an excellent straight-man to Steve Martin's antics, and made me re-consider my opinion.

The kids: While this brood of 12 featured more famous stars like Hillary Duff, Tom Welling and Piper Perabo, I found the entire dozen to be endearing and talented. They played the roles well, and you found yourself thrilled that you weren't their babysitter!

The details
Two full length audio commentaries
Extra and deleted scenes
English/Spanish/French
Dolby digital surround 5.1
Captioned
Full screen or widescreen
2003
Color
98 minutes

You'll love it
If you aren't looking for an academy award, then you'll simply love it. It's a great lightweight movie, and will entertain any crowd. However, you might not be so happy when your kids start trying some of these antics on their own... some things are only funny on film!