Watch Cheaper by the Dozen

Cheaper by the Dozen is a delightful family comedy from 1950 starring Clifton Webb, Myrna Loy, and Jeanne Crain. Based on a true story, the film tells the story of the Gilbreth family, a couple with 12 children living in the early 20th century. The film is a heartwarming and humorous look at the ups and downs of family life. The patriarch of the Gilbreth family is Frank, played by Clifton Webb, who is a highly successful efficiency expert. He is obsessed with productivity and time management, which often clashes with his wife Lillian's desire for a more relaxed family life. Myrna Loy plays Lillian, a loving and caring mother who tries to balance Frank's demands with the needs of her large family.

The film is set in the early 1900s, a time when families were much larger and life was much simpler. There are no cell phones, no computers, and no social media. Instead, the Gilbreth family relies on old-fashioned methods of communication and organization, such as bells that ring when it's time for dinner and a large chalkboard that keeps track of everyone's schedules.

The film is filled with amusing and touching moments that will resonate with anyone who has a large family. These moments are brought to life by the talented cast, including the 12 child actors who play the Gilbreth children. While each child has their own unique personality, they are all part of a tight-knit family that loves and supports each other through thick and thin.

One of the most entertaining aspects of the film is watching Frank try to apply his efficiency principles to his family life. He uses his techniques to get the family ready and out the door in record time, but his methods don't always work as planned. This leads to some hilarious moments, such as when Frank tries to save time by having the children brush their teeth together.

Despite Frank's focus on productivity, he is a loving and caring father who genuinely cares about his children. This is demonstrated in several scenes, such as when he takes the children on a fun outing or when he helps his daughter with math homework. While his methods may be unorthodox at times, he always has his family's best interests at heart.

Myrna Loy's portrayal of Lillian is also a highlight of the film. She is the glue that holds the family together, and her love and patience are tested when Frank's work takes him away from the family for extended periods of time. Despite these challenges, she remains devoted to her large family and works tirelessly to ensure that they are all happy and healthy.

Jeanne Crain plays the eldest daughter, Ann, who is a central character in the film. She is portrayed as intelligent and headstrong, and she struggles with her feelings for a young man while trying to balance her family responsibilities. Crain delivers a strong performance that captures the challenges faced by young women in the early 1900s.

Overall, Cheaper by the Dozen is a heartwarming and entertaining film that will appeal to anyone who appreciates the joys and challenges of family life. It is a timeless classic that continues to resonate with audiences today. The film is well-written, well-acted, and beautifully filmed, making it a must-see for anyone who loves classic films.

Cheaper by the Dozen is a 1950 comedy with a runtime of 1 hour and 25 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.0.