Are you looking for a classic family movie to watch this weekend? Look no further than ‘Cheaper By The Dozen,’the 1950 film based on the biographical book of the same name by Frank B. Gilbreth Jr. and Ernestine Gilbreth Carey.
This heartwarming film tells the story of the Gilbreth family, who were famous for their efficiency and time-management expertise, as they navigate the challenges of raising 12 children. Starring Clifton Webb and Myrna Loy as the parents, and featuring a talented young cast of child actors, ‘Cheaper By The Dozen’is a charming and timeless film that has been beloved by generations.
But the story behind the film is just as interesting as the movie itself. In this article, you’ll learn about the real-life Gilbreth family and their impact on the fields of time management and industrial engineering, as well as the making of the film and its enduring legacy.
So grab some popcorn and settle in for a classic family movie night with ‘Cheaper By The Dozen.’
The Real-Life Inspiration Behind ‘Cheaper By The Dozen’
Get ready to be inspired by the real-life family that served as the inspiration for ‘Cheaper By The Dozen’!
The Gilbreth family, led by Frank and Lillian Gilbreth, were pioneers in the field of time and motion studies. They were efficiency experts who believed in using scientific principles to improve productivity and reduce waste in both the workplace and the home.
The couple had twelve children, and their experiences raising such a large family served as the basis for the best-selling book ‘Cheaper By The Dozen’, written by their son Frank Gilbreth Jr. and daughter Ernestine Gilbreth Carey.
The book was a huge success upon its release in 1948, and it was later adapted into a film in 1950. While the movie version took some liberties with the source material, it still captured the spirit of the Gilbreth family and their dedication to efficiency and hard work.
The film starred Clifton Webb as Frank Sr. and Myrna Loy as Lillian, and it was a box office hit. Despite some criticism for its departures from the book, the movie remains a beloved classic to this day.
The Cast and Characters of ‘Cheaper By The Dozen’
Well, look at you, trying to brush up on your knowledge of the classic comedy flick with Steve Martin and Bonnie Hunt. You’ll be happy to know that the cast is just as charming as the storyline, with each actor bringing their own unique personality to their respective characters.
Steve Martin plays Tom Baker, the patriarch of the family and a football coach, while Bonnie Hunt plays his wife, Kate, who’s a writer. Together, they have twelve children, each with their own quirks and personalities.
The Baker children are played by a talented group of young actors. Hilary Duff stars as Lorraine, the oldest daughter, and Tom Welling as Charlie, the oldest son. Alyson Stoner, Morgan York, and Forrest Landis also star as the younger siblings, and each actor portrays their character with heart and humor.
The chemistry between the cast members is evident in every scene, making ‘Cheaper By The Dozen’ a joy to watch.
Behind the Scenes: Making the Film
During production, the cast and crew of ‘Cheaper By The Dozen’ worked tirelessly to bring the heartwarming story to life. The making of process involved a lot of hard work and dedication from everyone involved, including the director, producers, writers, and actors. They had to ensure that every scene was shot perfectly, the sets and costumes were authentic, and the story was told in a way that would resonate with audiences.
However, the production process wasn’t without its challenges. One of the biggest obstacles was working with such a large cast. With twelve children in the Baker family, it was difficult to coordinate and film scenes with everyone present.
Additionally, the film was shot on location in various parts of the country, which presented its own set of logistical challenges. Despite these difficulties, the cast and crew persevered. The end result was a timeless classic that continues to be beloved by audiences today.
Impact and Legacy of ‘Cheaper By The Dozen’
You might be surprised to learn that ‘Cheaper By The Dozen’ had a significant impact on the film industry, as it inspired a wave of family comedies featuring large ensembles of characters. The film’s portrayal of a large family and their daily struggles resonated with audiences, paving the way for future films that explored family dynamics and parenting styles.
Here are some ways in which ‘Cheaper By The Dozen’ impacted the film industry:
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It popularized the concept of a large family as the central focus of a film. Before ‘Cheaper By The Dozen’, most family films centered around a small group of characters, typically a mother, father, and a couple of children. The success of the film showed that audiences were interested in seeing larger families on the big screen.
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It influenced the development of family comedies as a genre. ‘Cheaper By The Dozen’ proved that family-oriented films could be both humorous and heartwarming, leading to a rise in similar films in the following years.
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It showcased a variety of parenting styles. The film presented the Gilbreth parents as a united front, but with different approaches to raising their children. This allowed audiences to see that there are multiple ways to parent effectively, and that every family is unique.
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It highlighted the challenges and joys of raising a large family. ‘Cheaper By The Dozen’ depicted the chaos and struggles that come with having 12 children, but also showed the love and support that exists within the family unit. This portrayal resonated with audiences and helped to make the film a classic in the family comedy genre.
Overall, ‘Cheaper By The Dozen’ left a lasting impact on the film industry, paving the way for future films that explore the complexities and joys of family life. Its portrayal of a large family and the various parenting styles depicted within it continue to resonate with audiences today.
Where to Watch ‘Cheaper By The Dozen’ Today
Looking for a heartwarming family film to watch tonight? If you’re in the mood for a classic comedy that explores the challenges and joys of raising a large family, there’s a great option available to stream now.
‘Cheaper By The Dozen’ is a beloved 1950 film that tells the story of the Gilbreth family, a household with twelve children and two parents who are both efficiency experts. The film is based on a true story and has been a favorite among audiences for generations.
If you’re interested in watching ‘Cheaper By The Dozen’ today, there are several streaming options available. The film can be rented or purchased on Amazon Prime Video, Google Play, iTunes, and Vudu. It’s also available to stream on Disney+, the subscription-based streaming platform that offers a wide range of classic family films and TV shows.
If you prefer physical media, you can purchase the DVD or Blu-ray of the film on Amazon or at your local retailer.
No matter how you choose to watch it, ‘Cheaper By The Dozen’ is sure to bring a smile to your face and remind you of the importance of family.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was the composer of the film’s soundtrack?
The film’s soundtrack composer, though unmentioned, played a vital role in setting the tone and enhancing the overall success of the movie. Their style, notable works, and collaborations with other artists/filmmakers significantly impacted the film’s musical identity.
What was the budget for the film?
The film budget for Cheaper By The Dozen is not specified, but it can be inferred that the production cost was relatively low due to the simplicity of the sets and the use of lesser-known actors at the time.
Were there any major controversies or scandals surrounding the film’s production?
You’ll be disappointed to know that Production issues and Casting controversies plagued the film’s production. The movie faced several setbacks, leading to a massive budget overrun. Despite this, the movie managed to make a profit and has become a classic.
How did the film’s release perform at the box office?
The film’s box office performance was successful, earning over $7 million in the US. However, critical reception was mixed, with some praising the comedic elements and others finding it too sentimental.
Was there ever a sequel or prequel made to ‘Cheaper By The Dozen’?
You may be interested to know that there were possible sequels to the original book series ‘Cheaper by the Dozen’ by Frank B. Gilbreth Jr. and Ernestine Gilbreth Carey. However, there was no official prequel or sequel made for the 1950 film adaptation.
Conclusion
As you reflect on the legacy of ‘Cheaper By The Dozen’, you can’t help but notice the symbolism of a large family struggling to find balance in a fast-paced world.
The film represents the struggles of the average American family, trying to keep up with the demands of work, school, and extracurricular activities.
The Baker family’s journey is a reminder that family comes first, and that the pursuit of success and material wealth can come at a cost.
The film’s enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless message of family unity and love.
It serves as a reminder that, despite the chaos and challenges of everyday life, there is nothing more important than the bonds of family.
So, whether you’re watching ‘Cheaper By The Dozen’ for the first time or revisiting it after many years, take a moment to appreciate the message behind the film and the importance of family in our lives.
